March Against Texas Abortion Law

On October 2, 2021, thousands of marched on the Supreme Court, the Texas Capitol, and various cities across the United States to protest abortion restrictions. A total of 660 demonstration were sparked by a new Texas law which bans abortion from occurring six weeks after pregnancy. Representatives of the Planned Parenthood organization even chimed in, calling this a “dark moment,” no matter “where you live [or] are.” 

The new “heartbeat” law, passed by Governor Greg Abbott, bans abortion after cardiac activity has been detected, which is around the six week mark. However, the problem is that six weeks is before most women know they are pregnant and earlier than 85% to 90% of abortions are performed. Additionally, there is no exception for rape or incest, and it’s up to ordinary citizens to enforce the ban. If any citizen sues someone who helped provide an illegal abortion, they are also awarded 10,000 dollars. 

With new abortion laws and restrictions being considered across various state legislatures, many are attempting to fight for their rights in a manner that allows them to peacefully express their voice, while making a statement. In turn, there has been a larger number of citizens participating in protests, causing both tension and distress. 

Currently, the U.S. supreme court is considering a Mississippi case that would enable them to overturn abortion rights established in the 1973 Roe v. Wade case. If the precedent is overturned, abortion laws are no longer protected by the constitution, allowing states to determine their own regulations. This predicament could have a great impact on America’s future, and an individual’s expression of rights.