As you have seen in this morning’s news, the U.S. Supreme Court has ended the constitutional protections for abortion that had been in place for nearly 50 years in a decision by its conservative majority to overturn Roe v. Wade – leaving the legality of abortion access and care up to individual states to decide. Many believe, this will result in abortion being illegal in more than half the country. This is extremely concerning and very disappointing.
At Women’s College Hospital (WCH), we believe that access to safe and supportive abortion care is a healthcare right for all individuals. As a leader in sexual and reproductive health, together with our partners, we have worked relentlessly to remove barriers and reduce the gaps in accessing this essential level of care. Now more than ever, we stand in solidarity with reproductive justice and pro-choice activists who are continuing to fight for sexual and reproductive health rights for all.
We have long seen the cumulative effect of inequities in relation to sex and gender in health, and these inequities have become even more pronounced in recent years. WCH will continue to address the gaps in access and health outcomes through the upcoming launch of a new, leading-edge Centre for Sex, Gender and Reproductive Health. Building on our history of advocacy and innovation in sex, gender and reproductive health, the Centre will lead evidence, education, policy and clinical practice into the next era of healthcare.
These are unquestionably difficult times. We acknowledge the compassionate and tireless efforts that physicians, staff and volunteers at WCH, along with organizations in our communities and around the world, who work to provide increased reproductive care access in very challenging contexts. It is in recognition of their efforts, and supporting every person seeking reproductive care, that we remain steadfast in our work and will remain committed to our pursuit of a more equitable world.