After Politico published an article on May 2 about a leaked draft opinion from the Supreme Court in favor of overturning the historical ruling of Roe v. Wade, millions of Americans have been awaiting the final decision. And nearly two months later, the Supreme Court has at last delivered their ruling to follow through and overturn the landmark case.
Here are a few questions answered, as well as more information for those who are pro-choice supporters looking to take action in NYC.
What is Roe v. Wade?
Roe v. Wade is a court decision that ultimately protects women’s abortion rights under the constitution. The 1973 ruling is a significant case in American court history that has set precedence for many subsequent court decisions.
What does the overturn mean for New Yorkers?
Today, the Supreme Court decided in a 5-to-4 ruling to overturn the case under the notion that “the Constitution does not confer a right to abortion.” Moving forward, the legality of an abortion will be dependent on individual state laws and their elected representatives.
Some states such as Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kentucky and more had already set in place “trigger bans” that will restrict abortions in their states within 30 days of the Supreme Court’s overturn. New York, however, will remain an accessible state for legal and safe abortions, as many New York politicians have openly shared their frustrations over today’s ruling.
Governor Kathy Hochul reaffirmed the right to an abortion in New York on Twitter, stating that “Access to abortion is a fundamental human right, and it remains safe, accessible, and legal in New York.”
Today the Supreme Court rolled back the rights of millions of Americans, disregarding their interests and — more importantly — their lives.
Access to abortion is a fundamental human right, and it remains safe, accessible, and legal in New York.
— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) June 24, 2022
Mayor Eric Adams shared that those seeking abortions who no longer have legal access to them are welcome in New York City, with Manhattan Borough president, Mark D. Levine, echoing his sentiment that “To everyone in any place in the country where your reproductive freedom is being denied: The right to an abortion in New York is enshrined in law. You are welcome here. You will always be welcome here.”
To all New Yorkers: you still have access safe, legal abortions here in New York City.
To those seeking abortions around the country: you are welcome here.
Find more information on providers, support, and additional resources available: https://t.co/1jloa0xxXK pic.twitter.com/mQD75yG6mJ
— Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) June 24, 2022
Protests in NYC
- Union Square Park (6/24) at 5 p.m.
- Foley Square (6/24) at 6 p.m.
- Harborside, Jersey City (6/24) at 6 p.m.
- Washington Square Park (6/24) at 6:30 p.m.
- Union Square Park (6/24) at 8 p.m.
Rallies happening tonight in NYC 👇 https://t.co/BRbxVTGpfk
— Mark D. Levine (@MarkLevineNYC) June 24, 2022
Expected Street Closures
The main protest areas of Washington Square Park and Union Square are expected to have multiple street closures including on University Place and up Broadway. If you are trying to get through, it is suggested you take an alternative route.
Protest Activity: Expect traffic delays & emergency personnel in the area of Washington Square Park and Union Square Park. Use alternate routes.
— NYCEM – Notify NYC (@NotifyNYC) June 24, 2022
Resources in NYC
The NYC Health Department’s webpage shares accessible resources if you are seeking them.
Healthcare Resources
- NYC Health + Hospitals (NYC specific)
- The Book of Choices (New York State specific)
- National Abortion Federation (Nationwide)
- ineedana.com (Nationwide)
Funding
- National Abortion Federation or call 800-772-9100
- New York Abortion Access Fund or call 212-252-4757
- National Network of Abortion Funds
- Brigid Alliance (travel expenses)
- Haven Coalition (lodging)
Volunteer Opportunities
Informational Resources
*This article will continue to be updated, so feel free to check back in the coming hours and days for more information.