On Friday, the US Supreme Court released its decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, overturning fundamental rights previously protected by Roe v. Wade. We are devastated by this ruling. This decision denies us the most basic of our human rights – the right to autonomy over our own bodies. Reproductive rights are workers’ rights. We strongly condemn this ruling and stand in solidarity with so many others who are speaking out and taking action to decry this injustice.
The IFO is committed to reproductive justice and is committed to making sure our members continue to have access and the ability to make our own reproductive decisions and determine our own paths for of our lives. Although rights for our members living in Minnesota are not directly affected yet, almost 25% of our members live in bordering states that have criminalized reproductive freedom and individual autonomy. We are committed to supporting our members outside of Minnesota. We are also committed to other rights the Court is targeting, such as the right to privacy, contraception, same-sex consensual relations, and same-sex marriage.
The decision will disproportionately affect marginalized members of our community— women, low-income, queer and trans individuals, immigrants, those with disabilities, and BIPOC individuals. The overturning of these basic rights will exacerbate economic and social disparities. The IFO is committed to addressing these disparities.
Extremists on the Supreme Court are out of touch with the vast majority of the country and any sense of social justice and human dignity. It is clear this year’s elections are absolutely critical to protecting freedoms for all working people.
In the coming months, members at all levels of the organization will determine the best ways for the union to support impacted faculty and our families.
We encourage you to act, vote, and continue working people’s fight to protect freedoms after the November 8 election.
If you’re interested in additional information or how to engage, please contact us at advocacy@ifo.org. Additional resources are included below.
Abortion Finders
· Abortionfinder.org
Accessing Financial Assistance
· Abortionfunds.org/need-abortion
Free Legal Advice
· Reprolegalhelpline.org | 844-868-2812
Accessing Medication
· PlanCpills.org
Free Medical Advice
· Call or Text 833-246-2632