When I was a senior in high school, I was required to write a persuasive essay on Roe v. Wade, explaining why the famous Supreme Court case that legalized abortion in the U.S. should be overturned. This was a few years prior to its overturn in 2022 by Dobbs v. Jackson.
Throughout the rigorous process of researching the essay, I became convinced of one reality: that Roe v. Wade was riddled with holes and problems, both in its logic and in its treatment of the law and Constitution.
Despite this conviction, though, I struggled to see how this problematic case could ever be overturned. When I wrote the essay, Roe v. Wade had already governed abortion law in our country for 46 years. It had claimed abortion was a “Constitutional right,” and admittedly, I was not all too hopeful that it would change.
I’m so grateful I was wrong.
As we remember the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, we now do so in celebration that it’s been overturned. I can remember exactly where I was when I heard the news. To be honest, I thought it was fake or too good to be true.
I had a pessimistic outlook that didn’t expect to witness such a momentous event.
Reflecting back on that day, I realize this victory for the pre-born proves something to me that I believe we would all do well to remember: the light will overcome the darkness.
For the overturn of Roe v. Wade, it took almost 50 long years. And we mourn the loss of the millions of pre-born babies who lost their lives during those years. Their dignity and worth will never be forgotten.
We also know that this victory cannot make us complacent, because pre-born babies continue to lose their lives every day. The fight is not over. But the triumph of Dobbs v Jackson overturning Roe v. Wade proves to us that the fight can – and will – be won.
And it starts now. Today. It starts by meeting people where they are, listening to them with charity, and sharing the truth about abortion with compassion.
With the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, let us do two things: celebrate its overturn and re-commit ourselves with more passion and courage than ever to making abortion not only illegal, but also unthinkable.
To celebrating Life,
Naomi