On June 24, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 Supreme Court decision that affirmed the constitutional right to abortion. Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc./LiveYourDream.org is a global organization with a diverse membership whose opinions on this matter span the full political spectrum. Access to abortion varies significantly across Soroptimist/LiveYourDream.org’s countries and territories.
We have seen firsthand the consequential effects unplanned pregnancy has on a woman’s mental and physical health, her educational opportunities, and her future success, as well as the health and economic outcomes for her children. The reversal of Roe v. Wade means that Soroptimist/LiveYourDream.org’s programs, which improve access to education for women and girls, will be even more important for reducing the probability of unplanned pregnancy and for equipping women and girls to pursue employment whatever their maternal status.
During this time of political division, let us remain united by the Soroptimist/LiveYourDream.org mission, ensuring that every woman and girl has the opportunity to pursue an education, achieve economic empowerment, and live her dreams. Together, we will continue to advance our mission by empowering women using every tool we have, no matter what challenges women and girls may face.