In Response to Dobbs vs. Jackson Women’s Health Organization
On June 24, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court issued its ruling in the case Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. This decision overturned the precedent of Roe v. Wade, which guaranteed constitutional protection for abortion rights, and the right to privacy, in the United States since 1973.
This ruling was issued in the context of centuries of historical oppression against women. We at the Counseling Center recognize the disproportionate impact of this ruling, especially on BIPOC communities, people with fewer financial resources, immigrants, people with disabilities, young individuals, and LGBTQ people. This ruling also threatens the protection of marriage equality, LGBTQ civil rights, gender affirming care, and access to contraception for all women.
Consistent with our mission and values, the Counseling Center speaks out against policies that negatively and disproportionately impact people who are already marginalized and oppressed. As mental healthcare providers, we value the individual’s right to safety and self-determination. We support an individual's right to have the freedom to make decisions about their own reproductive health and have equitable access to health care.
As mental healthcare providers, we are mindful of the psychological impact of this ruling on our UIC students. We want to acknowledge that people may have a range of reactions to this news, including anger, grief, fear, uncertainty, and despair. At times like these, past experiences of trauma related to oppression might also get activated. All of these reactions are a normal response to a stressful situation. It is important to seek support, whether from friends, loved ones, cultural communities, and/or mental health professionals.
We will continue to support the mental health needs of all of our UIC students who are impacted by today’s ruling–especially women, transgender men, and anyone who can become pregnant. If you need mental health support and resources the Counseling Center offers a single session appointment, initial consultation, individual and group therapies, drop-in-spaces, workshops, and community referral options. Provided below are additional resources.
Reproductive Healthcare Resources at UIC
- Center for Reproductive Health at UI Health
- Women’s Leadership and Resource Center
- Wellness Center
- Campus Care (covers abortion and contraception)
Additional Resources