Unequivocal Champion for Choice
Minutes after I saw the headline that a leaked Supreme Court decision looks set to overturn Roe v Wade, Commissioner Hardesty reached out, both of us devastated by the news.
As this unprecedented leak will undoubtedly lead to more confusion, the following must be absolutely clear: abortion remains legal and federal protections will remain standing until a final Supreme Court decision is issued. However, this draft is proof positive that five Supreme Court Justices are all too willing to throw out 40+ years of legal precedent that previously established the basic human right of choice.
All too willing to carelessly undermine national standards and federal protections of comprehensive health care for all those that can give birth.
All too willing to overturn the constitutional right to an abortion.
Let’s also be clear: the legal right to an abortion has never been enough for many who still struggle to access care. Without federal protections, abortion access is under threat everywhere, including Oregon.
During this troubling moment in history, it will now be up to local governments to protect our basic human rights. Thankfully, Jo Ann saw this coming and helped us prepare.
When new abortion bans first started gaining traction across the country a few years ago, Commissioner Hardesty led the effort to direct our City Attorney’s office to help fight these draconian laws where needed.
Then following the Texas abortion ban that we knew would increase demand on our local providers, she championed an effort led by Pro-Choice Oregon, Northwest Abortion Access Fund, & Planned Parenthood Advocates of Oregon to allocate funds to assist local providers, which was supported by 4 out of 5 members of Council.
It’s important to note that one member of Council has already turned their backs on the pro-choice movement. He framed these actions as performative and not an urgent matter. That same council member recently endorsed one of our opponents.
Following the news, Commissioner Hardesty spoke clearly, saying: “Here is my promise Portland: As long as I am on the Portland City Council, you will have a fierce and unequivocal champion for choice and reproductive health care. I will never waver, and I will continue to lead to protect our rights.”
Leading on reproductive rights locally is exactly what Commissioner Hardesty had the foresight to get done and it is exactly what Portland needs more than ever during these scary times. Please join me in voting for the only candidate in this race endorsed by Pro-Choice Oregon – our champion Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty.
Staying strong,
Christel Allen
Executive Director
Pro-Choice Oregon
