Mississippians can not afford the effects of dismantling abortion rights.

Jackson, MS – Today, the Supreme Court decided to tear through the already tattered and worn fabric of our democracy. Overturning Roe v Wade blatantly ignores the fundamental human rights of millions of Americans. These justices acted in their political interests while disregarding the will and needs of the American people. They have, with one decision, unraveled 50 years of protection for pregnant people in our country.

“Between what is happening with voting rights, education, and criminal justice, we’re living in a time where constitutional and civil rights are under a vicious attack. And now the highest court in our country has decided to strip our human right to control our bodies,” said Nsombi Lambright – Haynes, One Voice Executive Director.

The ripple effect of this decision will be felt deeply throughout this nation, especially in Mississippi. Mississippi has the highest child poverty rate in the country. Our legislature recently failed to pass a postpartum care bill or expand Medicaid leaving many Mississippians vulnerable to an unnecessary health crisis. Tearing down abortion rights exasperates the instability of our economy and healthcare in our state. 

The truth is abortion rights are just as much an economic issue as they are a healthcare issue. According to the Journal of Pediatrics, one-third of the people choose abortion due to financial constraints on their already existing families. In a state with only one abortion provider, having an abortion was already nearly impossible for people without reliable transportation or stable employment. Also, with the impact abortion rights have on family leave and childcare combined with the fact women, especially women of color, make significantly less money, the Supreme Court’s decision tightens financial burdens on families. 

We must fight. We cannot afford to sit idly by and allow people motivated by political greed to continue dismantling the few protections we’ve built. The people will be heard. Our voices are plenty and mighty. Now more than ever, we will use our voices to battle these injustices. All our lives depend on it.

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