The Supreme Court's opinion inDobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organizationtoday struck down fifty years of precedent that we, on behalf of our clients, have fought to defend.Morrison Foerster has worked tirelessly to protect women's healthcare rights, including a woman's fundamental right to choose when, and whether, to have children.
Last month, after a draft opinion inDobbsleaked, I promised that we would redouble our efforts to protect abortion and other reproductive rights.We honor that promise today.Over the last few weeks, we have joined new initiatives to protect reproductive freedom, and to defend health care providers and others who are targeted for helping women obtain reproductive services.We will continue to marshal the time, talent, and resources zealously to advocate for our clients and their cause.
Of course, this commitment extends beyond client advocacy.We recognize the sharp and painful disparities in access to the full range of reproductive and maternal health services across American society, and we know that reproductive health outcomes vary drastically according to race and income.The Morrison & Foerster Foundation has contributed generously to organizations who defend and advance reproductive justice for all Americans.And we have moved quickly to protect the health and well-being of our employees, including through reimbursement of expenses related to lodging, transportation, and meals in a U.S. state where they can legally receive an abortion.
I know so many of us are angry, upset, despondent, deeply troubled and, frankly, scared of what this means for women choosing to obtain reproductive services and all others affected by today's decision.There are no easy answers today – just the need to keep fighting to protect the liberty and autonomy of women.Morrison Foerster proudly remains on the front lines.
Larren
Larren M. Nashelsky, Chair
Morrison & Foerster LLP