In 2022, the Supreme Court reversed decades of precedent in the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. The decision held that the Constitution of the United States does not confer a right to abortion and that the authority to regulate abortions rests with states. While the long-term ramifications of overturning the right to an abortion are unknown, Dobbs immediately triggered states’ existing laws banning abortion and prompted several states to enact laws that would eliminate or restrict access to abortion. As abortion bans spread across the country and prosecutors become more emboldened, Black pregnant people will continue to face a heavier burden of criminalization. Joined by public health, medical, and legal experts, this episode of Justice Above All, hosted by Dr. Sandhya Kajeepeta, explores the history of how pregnant Black people have been criminalized and the far-reaching consequences after the reversal of Roe v. Wade (1973).

Guests:

• Dr. Regina Davis Moss, In Our Own Voice
• Dr. Joia Crear-Perry, National Birth Equity Collaborative
• Pilar Whitaker, Legal Defense Fund

Produced by: Keecee DeVenny, Jackie O'Neil, Sandhya Kajeepeta

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