By Rep. Tony Cárdenas
The Supreme Court has overturned half a century of reproductive freedom. While I can’t say I’m surprised, I am outraged.
This is a dark day in American history. But we did not get here by accident. This is the product of a decades-long effort to overturn Roe and strip women of the freedom that all Americans have the right to — control of their own bodies, futures and lives.
This destructive ruling strips away an intensely personal, medical decision and gives it away to far-right politicians who’ve long wanted to turn back the clock.
Let me be clear: this flat-out assault on autonomy from the Supreme Court does not end here. Our rights are no longer safe. Today it’s your right to choose. Tomorrow it could be same-sex marriage, your right to contraception or the right to make your own decisions.
The House passed the Women’s Health Protection Act, and now, it’s time for the Senate to act and bring it for a vote. I urge our California legislature and governor to continue to protect and expand access to abortion so no one is denied the health care they need.
Let this moment be a reminder of the rights you hold so dearly as Americans. From this day forward, our rights are under attack. My heart is heavy, but we will fight this together.
From the streets to the ballot box, we will protect our basic human rights.