Hundreds of protestors gathered outside the US Supreme Court after the nine-member panel overturned the 50-year-old Roe V Wade precedent that made abortion a constitutional right for Americans.
Also read: Obama reacts to Roe v Wade reversal, says end of federal abortion rights
Supporters and abortion rights activists, who were opposing the reversal, cheered and shouted slogans outside the SCOTUS. The crowd erupted as soon as the opinion was made public.
Several pro-life groups cheered. “This is what a pro-life feminist looks like,” they said. “We are the pro-life generation and we will abolish abortion.
Also read: Donald Trump reacts to Roe v Wade overturn: Will work out for everybody
“Demonstrators are gathering on Capitol Grounds, near the U.S. Supreme Court. Protesters are allowed to peacefully demonstrate, however they must follow the officer’s instructions so that everyone stays safe,” the US Capitol police tweeted.
Progressive US Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who was drawing attention outside of the Supreme Court building, saw protestors yell at her: “Why do you want babies to die?”
Also read: Planned Parenthood vows to fight for abortion rights amid Roe v Wade reversal
“Today is just absolutely monumental, especially for the pro-life movement that is diverse, progressives like myself, atheists like myself, members of the LGBTQ community, this is huge for us. It shows people it doesn’t matter your religious views, your ideological background, your race, your gender, anything, you absolutely can and should be in support of protecting unborn human beings who are just like us in every considerable way,” Kristin Turner, executive director of Pro-Life San Francisco and Communications Director for the Progressive Anti-Abortion Uprising said.
Meanwhile, local officials in Chicago pledged that the Illinois city will remain a “haven” where people in need can access abortions. Authorities there have pledged $500,000 to help people access abortions and reproductive care.
Also read: US Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade: How lawmakers reacted
Talking to Fox News, former President Donald Trump said that the reversal “will work out for everybody.”
“This is following the Constitution, and giving rights back when they should have been given long ago,” Trump added.
“I think, in the end, this is something that will work out for everybody. This brings everything back to the states where it has always belonged,” the Republican leader said.