In one of the most stunning reversals in the modern era of the US Supreme Court, a majority of the Court overturned a nearly 50-year precedent in Roe v. Wade and gave states a license to ban abortion. This ruling is an attack on women’s reproductive health and a dangerous setback for fundamental human rights.

The International Executive Board of the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada believes that everyone should be able to make their own decisions concerning their reproductive rights, health, and future. We are at a time in our country’s history when voting is more important than ever. Our elected officials are making decisions that impact us for generations to come.

As we head into mid-term elections and prepare for the 2024 national election, ask your elected officials and local candidates where they stand on reproductive rights, demand commitments to protecting abortion access, and spread the word to other voters. Among the states banning abortion are those least likely to provide access to health care for low-income families and adequate safeguards for our most vulnerable children.

As a society, we must do better than this. We remain optimistic that we will see once again a future where every person is guaranteed access to quality and comprehensive reproductive care.