Resolution for Bodily Autonomy

The UA-Fayetteville Education Association/Local 965 stands in support of women’s bodily autonomy, right to privacy, equality under the law and unfettered reproductive choice. The Supreme Court’s June 24, 2022, decision Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization that overturns its 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling has destabilized not just our legal system but the society it governs by demonstrating its frightening, politically motivated disregard for the freedom of an entire class of people.

Local 965 supports full human rights, including abortion access, as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. As the union of University of Arkansas employees at all levels and stations, Local 965 is particularly concerned about health care access for women on campus.

Local 965 calls on the University of Arkansas to take whatever steps possible to protect the reproductive health needs of students, staff and faculty — including but not limited to:

• Increased availability of contraceptives
• No-cost birth control pills
• Insurance coverage for medical travel for procedures not available locally
• Ensuring Pat Walker Health Center Gyn Clinic continue all current practices on campus, including diagnostics, treatment and counseling

The union opposes laws and policies that restrain campus health care professionals. The union supports UA health care professionals to avoid self-restraint or self-censorship in treating and advising women, due to fear of possible legal action or employment sanctions.

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The Local 965 Executive Board approved this resolution 8-0 by email discussion.

Donation Recommendations

References

• Digest on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, compiled by SCOTUSblog 
• Locations, contact information for Planned Parenthood health centers in Northwest Arkansas and beyond
• Gyn (Women’s) Clinic, Pat Walker Health Center
• Access to Abortion is a Human Right, from Human Rights Watch