Roe v. Wade was a landmark decision of the U.S. Supreme Court in which the Court ruled that the Constitution of the United States protected a woman’s right to make their own decision about their pregnancy.

Reproductive health and the ability to make informed and safe decisions for family planning are major determinants in girl’s or young women’s ability to pursue an education. The recent decision from five (05) U.S. Supreme Court justices to overturn Roe v. Wade has eliminated some safe and affordable options in family planning that were once available to all women of reproductive age in the United States. This will have the most impact on all girls and young women, especially in low-income communities.

‘‘Women around the world have the right to determine when and if they want to have a child, and to raise them in a safe and healthy environment,’’ said Irmes Dagba-Craven, President/Founder of Girls Education First Foundation (GEFF). ‘‘But this Supreme Court decision will, unfortunately, have a profound impact on low-income women of color, across the United States, putting them at great risk physically, mentally and financially.’’ said Craven.

Our mission is to help girls and women gain access to education and, ultimately, the ability to live independently as positive contributors to society. We will continue to advocate for policies that promote the reproductive health and emotional well-being of girls and women around the world.

‘‘Now more than ever, it is important to speak out and support organizations that are advocating for women and gender-diverse people and their rights’’ said Craven.

While GEFF respects everyone’s personal views on this topic, we will continue our efforts to expand quality education for girls, promoting gender equality and fighting for women’s empowerment in the United States and around the world.

The foundation is teaming up with partner organizations to tackle the systemic barriers that affect the conditions in which girls are growing up, particularly those in low-income communities.

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