Statement on the Supreme Court decision on Roe v. Wade

Sent on behalf of SMC Superintendent/President Dr. Kathryn E. Jeffery, Vice President of Student Affairs Michael Tuitasi, and (Interim) Associate Dean of Student Life Thomas Bui

Dear SMC Community,

This morning, on June 24, 2022, the United States Supreme Court (SCOTUS) overturned Roe V. Wade, officially reversing a constitutional right to abortion upheld for half a century. While this decision is not expected to impact reproductive rights in California, it will significantly impact basic rights for many women across the nation—with women from low-income communities and women of color disproportionately impacted—and give nearly half of the states the ability to end access to legal abortions.

We know many in our community are deeply concerned by today’s news and this reversal of a woman’s basic right to choose; many are just beginning to process the immeasurable impact and will continue to do so in the days to come. As U.S. President Joe Biden stated, “. . . it is a sad day for the Court and for our country.”

We acknowledge the personal, socioeconomic, and disruptive effect this action will have on women across our country. Along with the California Community College Chancellor’s Office, Santa Monica College affirms our support for the basic human right that SCOTUS has now called into question with this decision. 

Many in our community will undoubtedly exercise their first amendment rights to free speech in the coming days. Civic engagement is an important pillar to preserving the future of our democracy. We hope, if you make the decision to participate in any advocacy efforts, that you do so peacefully and lawfully. 

For SMC mental wellness resources (for both students and employees) that can help you cope with current events, a review of abortion laws in California, links to SMC communities including the SMC Gender Equity Center & more, and links to organizations specifically advocating and fighting for access/right to reproductive health for women of color, and a list of resources and advocacy opportunities, review the College’s May 10, 2022 statement: “Worried About a Potential Overturn to Roe V. Wade?”

Additional Health Resources

Planned Parenthood
800-230-7526

UCLA Health
310-825-5961 - Abortion Services 
310-825 - 7955 - OB-GYN Services 

Kaiser Permanente
855-285-4246

FPA Women’s Health
Text Contact: 877-883-7264

- Dr. Kathryn E. Jeffery, Superintendent/President; Michael Tuitasi, Vice President, Student Affairs; Thomas Bui, Interim Associate Dean, Student Life.