Gonzalo Cuervo Statement on Draft SCOTUS Opinion Overturning Roe v. Wade

“The Supreme Court’s likely decision to overturn Roe v. Wade threatens the bodily autonomy, health, and wellbeing of millions of Americans. It also threatens to undermine a number of fundamental rights we all enjoy. If the Supreme Court can set aside 50 years of precedent and the health of millions in pursuit of an extreme right-wing agenda, we must ask ourselves: ‘what else will they come for?’

Thanks to the action of forward-thinking leaders and the advocacy of thousands in our state, the right to an abortion is protected by state law even should Roe fall. But it is clear that many of the rights we currently hold due to mere Supreme Court precedent are at risk and may require codification in Congress as well as in the RI General Assembly and city and town councils.

This moment demands bold and decisive action by us all. Elected leaders must use the powers granted by the people of Providence and Rhode Island to protect our rights. Additionally, we must remain vigilant, get involved locally, and vote. The future of our democracy depends on it.”