With Roe overturned, now is the time to act

Today’s decision by the Supreme Court turns back our country’s clock by 50 years. This is a tragic day for our Constitution and our rule of law.

The consequences of overturning Roe v. Wade cannot be understated. Women will die as a result of this decision. Low-income women and women of color will bear the brunt of this decision.

A rollback of fundamental constitutional rights is usually associated with backsliding democracies and authoritarian governments. This moment should serve as an ominous warning to all of us.

San Francisco and California will do everything we can to stand up for a woman’s right to choose. As City Attorney, I will do everything in my power to protect reproductive freedoms and ensure safe havens for people seeking abortions.

Last month, our San Francisco City Attorney’s Office, the Bar Association of San Francisco, and over 20 law firms across California announced the launch of the Legal Alliance for Reproductive Rights. Our Alliance will pursue affirmative legal strategies to protect the right to choose and provide pro bono legal services to those seeking or providing reproductive health care. We call on legal communities across our country to create similar initiatives and join us in the fight.

No one can sit on the sidelines during these harrowing times. We must all take action to stand up for our constitutional rights. If you can, please volunteer, join a rally, or otherwise support those who are providing or advocating for reproductive health care.

Now is the time to act.