Statement of President Obama on the 36th Anniversary of Roe v. WadePretty damn good. I would have liked to see the list following "To accomplish these goals" include "actively work to reduce sexual assault" and "expand access to affordable healthcare" (since about one-fourth of American abortion-seekers cite their own health or possible health problems with the fetus as reasons for the termination, owing to concerns including "a lack of prenatal care").
On the 36th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, we are reminded that this decision not only protects women's health and reproductive freedom, but stands for a broader principle: that government should not intrude on our most private family matters. I remain committed to protecting a woman's right to choose.
While this is a sensitive and often divisive issue, no matter what our views, we are united in our determination to prevent unintended pregnancies, reduce the need for abortion, and support women and families in the choices they make. To accomplish these goals, we must work to find common ground to expand access to affordable contraception, accurate health information, and preventative services.
On this anniversary, we must also recommit ourselves more broadly to ensuring that our daughters have the same rights and opportunities as our sons: the chance to attain a world-class education; to have fulfilling careers in any industry; to be treated fairly and paid equally for their work; and to have no limits on their dreams. That is what I want for women everywhere.
Still. This is the first time the American president has affirmed his commitment to Roe in almost a decade.
[Via. H/T to Shaker rrp.]
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