Friday, Jan. 22 marks the 48th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court issuing its landmark Roe v. Wade decision which legalized abortion across the United States.
With a conservative majority now sitting on the Supreme Court, many fear Roe v. Wade might not survive to see its 50th anniversary.
On Tuesday, a virtual panel discussion will feature activists from other states talking about their work to support reproductive rights and maintain access to abortion in their areas.
Titled “ROE@48 Before It’s Too Late,” the event will be teach attendees ways they can take action to support access to reproductive care. Dr. Caroline Heldman, the chair of the Critical Theory & Social Justice Department at Occidental College in Eagle Rock will serve as the host.
The city of West Hollywood and its Women’s Advisory Board along with the National Council of Jewish Women, Los Angeles (NCJW|LA) are among the many groups sponsoring the event.
“During the past several years, throughout the nation, we’ve continued to witness an escalation of destructive attacks on reproductive rights,” said Mayor Lindsey Horvath. “We must stand strong at every level of government and we must be outspoken when it comes to supporting women’s most fundamental rights. West Hollywood was the first city in the nation to declare itself pro-choice and our city will continue its tireless efforts to vigorously defend women’s reproductive rights and access to healthcare.”
Among the speakers participating are Claudia Powell, the community engagement manager of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles and Xenia Vidal, the public affairs specialist of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles.
Other speakers include Amelia Bonow, the co-founder of Shout Your Abortion, Fabiola Carrion, a senior attorney at National Health Law Program and Cherisse Scott, the founder of SisterReach.
ROE@48 is Tuesday, Jan. 26 at 5 p.m. Tickets range from $5 to $35 and the proceeds will benefit reproductive justice organizations and service providers. To register, please visit www.Roe48.Eventbrite.com or www.ncjwla.org.
