The American Association of Hispanics in Higher Education (AAHHE) condemns the United States Supreme Court’s ruling to overturn Roe v Wade, the 1973 landmark decision that established the constitutional right to reproductive choice. This action by the Supreme Court on June 24, 2022, demonstrates the effect of power and privilege that essentially strips away human rights, especially the rights of women and historically marginalized groups. Specifically, it will lead to increased inequalities in healthcare and abortion access, put people at risk for physical and mental health problems, and cause financial strain. Moreover, banning abortion nationwide could increase pregnancy-related deaths by 7% in the first year and 21% in later years. It is predicted (estimated) that Black and Latinx women would have the highest rates of such deaths. 

The outcry is palpable across the country with protests occurring daily. As the days and weeks unfold, we will witness the impact of this decision on millions of individuals and their families. AAHHE demands that Congress promptly codify federal abortion protections into law to protect underserved and minoritized communities. Each one of us must remain vigilant, ready to mobilize as our civil rights are jeopardized, and address issues that disproportionately affect our communities. The words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. resonate today—Injustice anywhere, is a threat to justice everywhere. 

We join with other prominent organizations such as the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational, the National Hispanic Medical Association, the Labor Council for Latin America Advancement, the National Hispanic Media Coalition, the National Latinx Psychological Association, and many other like-minded organizations in condemning the Supreme Court’s decision.   

In solidarity,