Philly Leader

Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court voted to uphold Dobbs Vs. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, a move that takes away the constitutional right for a woman to get an abortion. In response, members of various Pennsylvania commissions joined together to speak out against the ruling through a release by Gov. Tom Wolf.

The release on June 24, which was the day of the ruling, includes statements by members of the Pennsylvania Commissions for Women, African American, Latino, LGBTQ+ and Asian Pacific American Affairs. The federal ruling will not have an effect on women at the state level.

Executive Director of the Governor’s Advisory Commission on African American Affairs LaDeshia Maxwell said the Supreme Court decision was disheartening but stressed her commission and Wolf’s commitment to women’s rights.

“Our commission is committed to ensuring that abortion access remains safe and a right to all who would like it in the commonwealth.”

Stephanie Sun is the executive director of the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs, and called the Supreme Court “out of touch,” adding that this is not what the majority of Americans want.

“Even with this setback, we as a country and as a people must continue to move forward and strive to make this a better place for all people,” Sun said. “It is the hope of the Pennsylvania Governor’s Advisory Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs that the voice of the people will be heard through the upcoming elections and the fundamental human rights of women will be restored and expanded throughout this great nation.”

Commission for Women Executive Director Moriah Hathaway is a new mother and she said she is “saddened and terrified.”

“Abortion bans harm mothers, their babies and their families. They do not reduce maternal mortality or improve health care outcomes. Abortion bans also negatively impact communities of color, LGBTQ individuals, young people and low-income households at higher rates.”

Representing the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs was the commission Chair Maria Teresa Donate, who said “the fight for women’s rights has been a long and hurtful journey.”

“This decision takes us back to the initial struggles. said Donate. “As we did before, we will continue the fight. Nothing will stop us!”

The commissions said they stand by the efforts of Gov. Wolf, who has long worked for women’s rights and notably vetoed three state legislation approved anti-abortion laws.