Planned Parenthood President Marks the 49th Anniversary of Roe v. Wade

New York, NY — Today marks 49 years since the Supreme Court issued its decision in Roe v. Wade, the landmark ruling protecting the right to abortion.

Statement from Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Federation of America

“Just a year shy of the 50th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, we face a turning point that could reshape the right to access abortion in this country. Should the Supreme Court decide to further decimate access to abortion this summer, over 36 million women, plus other people who could become pregnant, across 26 states, could lose abortion access. But whether or not the court explicitly overturns Roe v. Wade, for many, the damage has already been done. For nearly 150 days, Texans have been denied their constitutional right to make decisions about their own bodies, and for many Black and Brown communities, LGBTQ+ people, and people with low incomes, the right to an abortion has never been enough to guarantee access.

“But we are not defeated. Abortion is health care, and abortion is essential. Planned Parenthood and our partners will do everything in our power to fight harmful abortion restrictions, wherever they appear. We are committed to helping patients navigate care and access abortion when they need it. And we call on lawmakers at all levels of government to meet the moment we are in, and ensure everyone can make their own health care decisions without political interference."

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Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable sexual and reproductive health care for all people, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With more than 600 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect, and without judgment, striving to create equitable access to health care. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable education and information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives. Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that supports the independently incorporated Planned Parenthood affiliates operating health centers across the U.S.