June 28, 2022 – Supreme Court Decision is an Historic Setback

Dear Campus Community,

On Friday, June 24, the Supreme Court toppled a long-held precedent and stripped federally protected rights to bodily autonomy and privacy in its decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Many in our community, including myself, view reproductive rights and protections as fundamental human rights and find this decision extremely distressing. It is concerning that the Court reversed what had been a federally protected right for the last 50 years.

Now, the question of reproductive rights and access to safe medical care has been sent back to the states to determine. At least 11 states have passed trigger laws to begin banning or severely limiting abortion with 11 more states expected to follow suit soon. I am thankful that California will continue to support a woman’s right to choose and offer access to reproductive services. Chico State will continue to provide access to reproductive health services at the WellCat Health Center and through employee benefits programs.

As our nation continues to grapple with uncertainty around important societal issues like abortion, I urge members of our community to be civically engaged, stay informed on the issues, listen to others, share your perspectives and, above all, exercise your right to vote. At a diverse campus like Chico State, I know that people will respond to the Supreme Court’s ruling in a variety of ways. No matter how you feel or your opinion about the Court’s decision, I strongly urge everyone to treat one another with respect, compassion, and civility. For those who wish to protest, please do so peacefully. And, for anyone feeling undue stress, remember you can access free confidential services at the Chico State Well Cat Counseling Center.

Sincerely,

Gayle E. Hutchinson