Last week, in a decision of epic nature, the United States Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and eliminated a constitutionally protected right that has existed for almost 50 years.

While this decision affects all of us, it is especially impactful to those who have historically been denied health care, in particular reproductive health access—Black, Indigenous and other communities of color, and low-income women. These women have experienced some of the highest incidences of birth complications and infant mortality and have the most difficulty accessing reproductive care.

At United Way of King County, we work in support of racially just communities where all people thrive. In order to thrive, we must be free to make choices about our bodies and our health, and to define what quality of life means to each of us.

The Supreme Court’s decision underscores the importance of advocating for gender justice, especially at the intersections of race and class.

United Way of King County

And we must be protected from all forms of identity-based oppressions. The Supreme Court’s decision underscores the importance of advocating for gender justice, especially at the intersections of race and class.

This is challenging in so many ways and certainly for the communities we are privileged to serve. However, the fight for reproductive and all human rights must not end, no matter how many blows are dealt. This is where we pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off and return to fight harder.

We reaffirm our commitment to work for racial justice and call out all forms of identity-based oppressions. We stand in solidarity with those who fight for equity for marginalized communities and individuals. And we will advocate for policies at the local, state and federal levels that protect the most vulnerable in our society.