DeGette Marks 40th Anniversary of Landmark Roe v. Wade Decision

WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (CO-1) took to the Floor of the U.S. House of Representatives today to mark the 40th Anniversary of the Supreme Court's Roe v. Wade decision. The following is a video of her remarks. Full text as prepared for delivery is below.

"M. Speaker, yesterday in his Inaugural address, our President reminded us of the founding principle of our nation, that we are all created equal.

"For the women of this great nation there can be no greater means of equality, than the right to reproductive choice.

"On the 40th anniversary of Roe v. Wade I come to the floor today to reflect on the tremendous accomplishments that have been made for women's reproductive rights. "On January 22, 1973, the highest court in this country laid the groundwork that a woman's right to a medical procedure should be constitutionally protected.

"For 40 years, American women have been allowed the freedom to make these decisions on their own, in consultation with their family and their physicians.

"I cannot tell you the story of every woman who has had to make such a difficult decision. But I can assure you this: each story is unique. A woman's story is her own, her struggles are her own, and are no matter for this Congress or any politician to decide.

"As a politician, I would not tell a woman how or when to get a check-up. I would not lecture her to go get a mammogram. And no politician, now or ever, should tell a woman how to handle her pregnancy.

"Just this morning a new national poll from the Wall Street Journal found that 7 in 10 Americans believe Roe v. Wade should stand.

"Let me say that again – 7 in 10 Americans believe it should stand.

"Let all those who would continue to threaten this fundamental right bear that in mind.

"Thank you to those who fight every day to advocate for the rights of women. Today is a day to be grateful and to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Roe. Today is a day to celebrate women's freedom."

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