The U.S. Supreme Court's recent reversal of Roe v. Wade is significantly impacting our country and our community. The end of constitutional protections for abortion rights at the federal level has caused strong feelings and reactions on both sides of the issue. Roe v. Wade had been the law of the land since 1973, and in an instant, on June 24, 2022, a woman's right under the United States Constitution to freely control her decision-making regarding her reproductive health vanished. Also, triggered largely by Justice Clarence Thomas' comments in his concurring opinion, questions about what additional rights might no longer be safe have arisen, leaving many members of our community feeling vulnerable.
Since 1934, the OCBA has been an organization that offers a sense of belonging to its members. It was and is an organization with a diverse membership, whether that diversity is based on race, gender, faith, sexual orientation, or political views. It was and is an organization that fosters mutual respect among its members.
Now more than ever, we need to remember that here, whether at a social event, a meeting, or a seminar, respect is needed. We need to respect the fact that the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision has brought to the forefront the many differing beliefs and deeply personal issues that have been fought about for decades. We need to respect the fact that how each of us feels about the decision is likely driven by a number of factors, including, but not limited to, faith, family, and one's sense of personal autonomy.
I reflect back to my first column, which focused on wellness and inclusion. Accepting and respecting the views that differ, the life experiences that differ, and the beliefs - religious, social, or otherwise - that differ allows our members to be well and fosters inclusion.
Let's please remember, we are all in this together.
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Elizabeth L. Luckenbach is the 90th president of the Oakland County Bar Association. Luckenbach is a member in Dickinson Wright LLP's Troy office.
