I am furious that we had more rights in 1973 than we have today. But I am also hopeful, because we have something that didn't exist yet in 1973: We have the millions-strong community of EMILYs List candidates and supporters. We have a movement.
Be part of the movement to STOP Republican chaos and TAKE BACK POWER. Donate to EMILYs List now:
John,
Two big things have stayed with me for the last 53 years, since Roe v. Wade was decided on this day in 1973.
First: The decision was momentous, an event to be celebrated, and permanent. In other words, when the U.S. Supreme Court issued its decision confirming a constitutional right to bodily autonomy, it was unfathomable to think that the precedent set that day could be ignored or invalidated at any point in the future. If you had told me then that women in 2026 would have fewer rights than we had in 1973, I would have been shocked… and very, very angry.
Second: Roe was so important for everyone of childbearing age — but the deepest reaction came from anyone who had gone through the process of getting an abortion pre-Roe. I’ve talked to women who had horrible experiences in dark and dirty hidden "medical" offices, who dealt with serious health problems caused by the procedure, who were terrified others would find out. The trauma of needing care in a country that outlawed it has stayed with them, which is why the women who still live with those memories are some of the most ardent warriors in today’s pro-choice movement. Those of us who were alive pre-Roe are DETERMINED that young women will not have to undergo similar, terrible experiences.
I am furious that we had more rights in 1973 than we have today. But I am also hopeful, because we have something that didn't exist yet in 1973: We have the millions-strong community of EMILYs List candidates and supporters. We have a movement.
Anti-choice extremism won't stop as long as Republicans are in power. John, I'm asking you to be part of the movement to STOP Republican chaos and take back power. Donate to EMILYs List now:
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With you in the fight,
Ellen R. Malcolm
Founder and Chair Emerita, EMILYs List
