As pediatricians and public health researchers committed to advancing health equity for all families with young children – particularly families marginalized by unjust policies and systemic racism – we are deeply disheartened by the reversal of Roe v. Wade as it will have lasting and devastating implications on the health of pregnant people and their children. Children’s HealthWatch research consistently shows interrelatedness of maternal and child health and the critical importance of ensuring all people have access to health services. The Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Ruling not only impedes access to the full range of necessary reproductive health services but imperils the health of pregnant people and their families across the country – the burden of which will disproportionately affect people of color, immigrants, and those with low incomes. This decision will deepen existing maternal mortality inequities and threaten the long-term economic stability and health of families with children. In addition to direct impacts on health and well-being, scholars warn this decision may also endanger rights of other marginalized groups, which, in turn, will further threaten the health of millions of people across the country.

Children’s HealthWatch remains committed to advancing health equity for young children and families. We support our public health and reproductive rights colleagues in promoting opportunities to restore access to safe abortion and advancing equity by ensuring all people have access to a full range of safe, affordable health services. To this end, as part of our Equity and You series in July, we will focus on ways you can join us in improving Black maternal health outcomes by amplifying movements and solutions led by women of color.