Our response to the Dobbs v. Jackson’s Women’s Health decision

Over the past 21 years at Claris Health, I’ve repeatedly been asked, “What happens if Roe v. Wade is overturned?”  My answer has consistently remained the same: “If Roe v. Wade is overturned, women and families will need Claris’ services and model of care even more.” Claris has never focused on Roe v. Wade. Our purpose and passion is to care for people – those who are affected by laws – during these critical pregnancy decisions and in the months and years that follow.

On June 24, 2022, the Supreme Court of the United States issued its opinion for Dobbs v. Jackson’s Women’s Health Organization. The verdict overturns the 1973 case Roe v. Wade, which had legalized abortion in the United States for nearly 50 years. Today, abortion is no longer federally protected in our country and voters will now decide abortion laws at the state level.

The leaders in California have been very vocal that abortion access in California will not change. In fact, Governor Newsom promised that California will become a sanctuary state for women across the nation to receive unrestricted access to abortion. Governor Newsom’s definition of sanctuary refers to one option – increased abortion access for all. Meanwhile, Claris Health has been known for more than four decades as a true sanctuary and a safe haven for people who are wrestling with these tough pregnancy decisions and desperately need to know that there is always more than just one option.

Abortion is a big decision, and it deeply impacts lives. It’s not one to be taken lightly, rushed, or made in desperation. I pray that this Supreme Court ruling challenges people across all political lines to join together to shift their focus onto the lives directly affected, in order to provide care and resources so no one feels trapped or alone. I challenge every state and every provider, who works with people who experience unintended pregnancies, to answer these questions and to implement necessary changes.

• • What will you do for women facing an unintended pregnancy? What services do you offer so people don’t feel pressured into one choice?

  • If abortions decrease in your area, do you have adequate support services to help with prenatal care, paid maternity leave, material assistance, and other critical needs?

  • If abortions increase in your area, can you guarantee that this isn’t because of a lack of support or resources?

  • How are you prepared to help people process through and after these decisions?

While we’re not focused on this Supreme Court decision, it does impact Claris Health. It provides more opportunity for medical care, mental health, and support services to help people make these tough decisions. It opens the door for discussions with individuals who are feeling overwhelmed by their circumstances. It brings more people in for our unique, patient-led model of prenatal care and parenting support. It provides more referrals to local social service agencies for housing, domestic violence, job placement, high-risk medical care, and more. It welcomes many more opportunities to listen to those who’ve had an abortion and want to process and heal from those experiences. It fuels our desire to see this model replicated around the nation.

Claris means clarity, and that’s what we will continue to provide anyone we’re privileged to serve.  We consider it an honor to care for the people of Los Angeles and beyond. Extreme groups will always focus on political issues, creating a bigger divide. Claris will focus on the individual lives caught between both sides.  We will fight for them, and we will always provide comprehensive, loving, nonjudgmental care regardless of the laws or agendas in place.  People in need deserve to know that they have options, and most importantly that they are not alone. This is the Claris Way. Please join us to make a difference in your community, pray for this nation, and care for those in need.

For bright futures,

Talitha Phillips