On May 14 in Brooklyn, New York, “Bans Off Our Bodies” went live to protest against the Supreme Court’s plan to overturn Roe. V Wade. Many people are concerned with the leak that the Supreme Court may be looking to make abortion illegal, as it has an effect on how many people will continue to live their lives.
Demonstrators with signs and chants said that abortion restrictions are part of a system of oppression that denies women, people of color and LGBTQ people full body autonomy and rights. Protestors have said that it is very vital to have equal and full access to reproductive health care to take care of ourselves the best way we know how, without feeling guilty or being shamed. As of now, abortion is still legal in the 50 states, but if anti-abortion rights activists have their way, it is only a matter of time before the court publishes their decision.
Democratic candidate for lieutenant governor Ana Maria Archila joined Planned Parenthood of Greater New York, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, Girls for Gender Equity and reproductive rights advocates to protest across the Brooklyn Bridge in support of abortion rights and access. The protesters met at Juneteenth Grove, off of Tillary Street in Brooklyn, to join protesters at Cadman Plaza, who then marched across Brooklyn Bridge.
Archila was endorsed by #VOTEPROCHOICE, a national organization that connects the nation’s pro-choice majority voters with pro-choice champion candidates in every election. She has said that New York State can and must take the lead in protecting abortion rights and expanding abortion access.
Mothers with their children, young women, and lots of men wearing supportive T-shirts and banners showed up. There will probably be many other marches to come.