'Politics is into You'
Recall the statement often attributed to political commentator and journalist Pericles Lewis: "You might not be into politics, but politics is into you.” This phrase captures a vital truth: even if someone chooses to remain disengaged from politics, political decisions continue to affect them. Nowhere is this truer than in issues surrounding reproductive rights, where political decisions directly impact women’s health, autonomy, and well-being. In the United States, the Supreme Court plays a critical role in shaping these rights, demonstrating how political forces reach into the personal lives of individuals—especially women.
Historically, the Supreme Court has been pivotal in defining and redefining reproductive rights. In the landmark case Roe v. Wade (1973), the Court established a woman’s constitutional right to access abortion. This decision affirmed the importance of personal autonomy, supporting women’s ability to make choices regarding their bodies and futures. Yet, over the years, the Court’s makeup and leanings have shifted, bringing new interpretations and restrictions on reproductive rights.
The Court’s recent decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (2022) overturned Roe v. Wade, giving individual states the power to regulate abortion laws without federal oversight. As a result, reproductive rights now vary drastically across the country, with some states enforcing total abortion bans. For millions of women, this decision marked a significant rollback in their rights, demonstrating how political forces within the judiciary can profoundly impact personal lives.
Political engagement, or lack thereof, directly relates to these changes. Supreme Court justices are appointed by elected officials—usually the president and Senate—making each justice’s stance a reflection of prevailing political ideologies. For instance, conservative-majority decisions on the Court have restricted access to reproductive healthcare, while historically, liberal-majority courts have expanded it. Without involvement in the political process, individuals may find themselves affected by decisions made by leaders they did not elect or vote for.
AP News, Reuters, Washington Post, New York Times, Journal of Women’s History, Harvard Law Review
