YWCA Canada is deeply saddened and concerned that the Supreme Court of the United States has overturned Roe v. Wade. We stand in solidarity with YWCA USA and the people of the United States amid this devastating erosion of abortion rights. The decision undermines nearly a half century of progress on reproductive freedom and has life-threatening consequences for women and people of all genders who can get pregnant.

YWCA Canada is a pro-choice organization. Access to free, safe, timely and quality abortion care is healthcare and is a human right. Safe abortions save lives. YWCA Canada is committed to continuing its decades-long history of fighting for reproductive rights.

In Canada, although there are no laws governing abortion, there remain barriers to accessing abortions. Access varies greatly across the country. Barriers to access are heightened in rural and remote communities and for racialized people, for low-income individuals, for young women and gender-diverse youth.

It is more important than ever to speak out and support organizations advocating for women and gender-diverse people and their rights. YWCA Canada will continue its advocacy aimed at ending gender-based violence, achieving income equality, implementing national childcare and ending homelessness for women and girls, as these are essential elements to achieving reproductive justice in Canada.