Hey there,

The Supreme Court’s reversal of Roe v. Wade demonstrated how something can be expected and still take your breath away. Yes, the leaked draft of the opinion removed the element of surprise at this decision. At the same time, the realization that my daughter will grow up with fewer rights than her mother had, leaves me shaken. To my core.

As we watch our country get divided into states where women can and can not control their own bodies – and make their own healthcare decisions – we can not afford to be spectators. We can’t give in to despair! This is a time when we need to stand up and fight, stay engaged, and work for change.

Living the TEN7 Values

While at first it might seem odd for TEN7 to weigh in so forcefully on women’s rights, particularly abortion, I don’t see us as having any other choice. I have made a point of building this company squarely on our values, especially our values of Be Honest and Be Inclusive. It would be inauthentic to stay silent now, and it would be a disservice to our team members, our clients, and our colleagues who expect us to stand up for what’s right.

The fact is, this decision impacts us all. Yes, it’s about abortion now, but it’s also about gay rights, trans rights, marriage rights, in-vitro fertilization, and the slippery slope that awaits us as fundamental freedoms are stripped away.

So, if we’re going to take a stand, where do we go from here?

Moving Forward

This is not going to be an easy fight, but we need to engage in a number of ways:

1. Vote!
   Yes, you may feel let down by politicians who have failed to codify Roe before now. That doesn’t mean we can let that disappointment keep us from supporting pro-choice candidates now. Reach out to campaigns. Offer to door knock or make phone calls. And vote for local, state and federal candidates who will protect the right to choose.
2. Hold Politicians Accountable!
   Once we elect pro-choice candidates, make sure the issue doesn’t fall down their list of priorities. Be vocal. March in protests. Send letters and make calls. Fundamental freedoms need to be the number one priority going forward.
3. Support Critical Organizations.
   Consider making a donation to an organization like abortionfunds.org, which is helping remove financial and logistical barriers for women who are seeking abortions.
4. Support Each Other.
   As we try to do with our clients, this is a great time to lead with empathy. Remember that this is an emotional issue for many people. Reach out to people who may be having a hard time and let them know you’re there for them. Listen.
5. Take Care of Yourself.
   Recognize your own need to heal and to process. Be kind to yourself. Reach out to others when you need support.

These are difficult times. I refuse to lose hope! Perhaps we can use this moment to re-engage and re-energize around policies that support equality and freedom. And maybe we can remember that, while we are all different, our shared humanity and our empathy can lead us to a better future.

Until next time,
Ivan