May 4, 2022 By Christian Murray
While thousands flocked to Foley Square in Manhattan Tuesday to protest the Supreme Court’s Roe v Wade draft ruling, a group of Sunnyside residents went to Lou Lodati Park to let their feelings be known that they disagree with the likely decision.
Council Member Julie Won organized a last-minute rally at the park for residents who were unable to attend the Foley Square rally but wanted to protest the likely ruling and make it clear that they support a women’s right to choose. About 30 Sunnysiders attended.
The rally was in response to a draft Supreme Court decision that was leaked to Politico Monday night that would overrule Roe v. Wade. The ruling would essentially mean that state legislatures would determine abortion rights. Approximately half the states in the nation— primarily in the South and Midwest– would restrict such rights.
“The women who will bear the consequences of Roe v. Wade being overturned will be working class women, especially BIPOC women who won’t be able to travel across state lines to receive care,” Won said. “What is argued to be a life saving measure will lead to many lives lost and health risks due to desperation.”
Won, who recently had her first baby, said that she is now more pro-choice than ever.
“It is not because I don’t love my baby or love being a mom, but because what women go through to give birth, vaginal or c-section, is so traumatic and invasive; women deserve to choose to go through it. Every woman should have access to have a healthy, safe delivery or abortion.”
Won’s event was one of many that are to taking place across the borough.
A large rally is scheduled at Queens Borough Hall on Thursday at 6 p.m. that is being organized by borough president Donovan Richards.
“Queens will always unquestionably stand up for the reproductive rights of all people. Abortion is health care, and not only is it a fundamental human right, it is often life-saving,” Richards said.