Roe Vs. Wade Day

Roe Vs. Wade Day is January 22nd

A lot of holidays are assigned random days, but on this day in 1973, a pivotal case changed American history forever. The Supreme Court of the United States of America ruled a Texas statute to be unconstitutional, as it violated a right of privacy. Justice Harry Blackmun wrote this opinion, and pro-choice groups today still use this case as a foundation. In this 7-2 decision, abortions were legalized for the entire country, depending on the trimester of the pregnancy. This holiday celebrates that landmark decision.

Where are we now

American's opinions still differ on the matter of legal abortions. Since the 1973 case, there have been multiple other lawsuits that challenged or altered the Roe vs. Wade decision. Perhaps most notably, Planned Parenthood vs. Casey. Although some of the details have changed, Roe vs. Wade’s ruling still remains to this day. Today’s holiday isn’t about pushing a political agenda, it’s recognizing how our country’s history was shaped. Regardless of your opinion on the matter, it’s important to know your American history, and this day was monumental. 

How to celebrate Roe Vs. Wade Day

• Watch documentaries explaining the social significance of the case
• Learn about the woman who inspired lawyers to file the case on her behalf, and her dramatic switch on her stance on abortion, Norma McCorvey
• Appreciate basic freedoms women have by being a citizen of the U.S.
• Donate to Planned Parenthood to support women’s health care
• Learn about other historical Supreme Court cases