On January 22, 1973, the decision was made in the case of Roe v. Wade, putting reproductive freedom in the hands of mothers. The decision allows women the full control of their pregnancy, up until "viability," which was roughly defined as the time when the baby could live on its own. This is, vaguely, after 24 weeks.The reason this decision changed the world is because we have upheld it. We have upheld this decision for 38 years. In the last 38 years, there have been eight Presidential Administrations, 23 U.S. Supreme Court Justices, and countless threats of appeal.
Roe v. Wade is the classic litmus test during all campaigns and nomination processes. Each time a pro-lifer takes office, we wait with bated breath to see if the issue will be raised during his tenure. We seem fixated on this one piece of legislation. For one-issue voters, this is most often their one issue. And yet, Roe v. Wade prevails.
Today, we can celebrate 38 years of freedom of choice. We can celebrate 38 years of reasonable people upholding a reasonable decision.
But this is in the wake of the election of a slough of anti-choice Republicans across the nation. Our House of Representatives and Senate are teeming with legislators who want to revoke our right to choose. This is why, 38 years later, it remains critical that we remain vocal. Though we have been blessed with 38 years of choice, we cannot assume there will be 38 more.
If choice is an issue about which you are passionate, contact your representatives. Contribute to candidates and organizations that will continue to uphold Roe v. Wade, and continue the fight for your rights and the rights of women you love.
www.naral.org
www.emilyslist.org
www.democrats.org
www.prochoice.org
www.plannedparenthood.org