We’re certainly seeing it in our own state. The day we learned the news of the decision, we faced a second crushing blow–as Ohio legislators moved swiftly to lift the preliminary injunction blocking a 6-week ban. Unfortunately, the request was granted and right now, abortion in Ohio is only available until six weeks gestation. This is before most people even know they’re pregnant.
Make no mistake–this ban effectively halts abortion access in the state. The effects on the patients are chilling. In our health centers, we are turning away hundreds of desperate and terrified patients who we can no longer provide care for due to regressive and restrictive bans set by those sworn to protect them.
We are already hearing and witnessing devastating stories of Ohioans in emotional distress as they grapple with the effects of this ban. The reality is horrific and the impact it’s having on people across the state is nothing short of inhumane. We will not stand for it. And now, more than ever, we need Ohioans to stand with us.
We have been diligently preparing for this outcome for the past few years. We have doubled down on our preventive family planning care and sex education to ensure that the people of southwest Ohio have the tools and resources they need to plan their families and their futures. We know the need for access to reproductive health care and sex education isn’t going away.
Yes, this blow is crushing – a complete loss of human rights in ways we haven’t seen before. But it isn’t the end. Because this is personal. Not just for me, but for your neighbors, your friends, your colleagues, your family members. Maybe even you.
We’ve never let adversity stop us before and we won’t now. Our mission is too important. We were built for this. The end of Roe isn’t the end of Planned Parenthood. It isn’t the end of high quality care in your community.
Patients with questions or who are in need of support can find access to our health center contact information on our website to be connected with a Patient Navigator. If you or someone you know are in need of access to abortion care, call 1-800-230-PLAN or visit abortionfinder.org.
Kersha Deibel is the President & CEO of Planned Parenthood Southwest Ohio Region.
The future of abortion in the Miami Valley
Following the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health ruling on June 24, the debate over the future of abortion reignited in communities across America. Hear from several perspectives on the issue from across our region and look for more columns on the topic coming later this week.
About the Author