*Administration of Barack Obama, 2012 *

**Statement on the 39th Anniversary of the Supreme Court Decision in Roe v. Wade **

*January 22, 2012 *

As we mark the 39th anniversary of *Roe* v. *Wade*, we must remember that this Supreme Court decision not only protects a woman's health and reproductive freedom, but also affirms a broader principle: that Government should not intrude on private family matters. I remain committed to protecting a woman's right to choose and this fundamental constitutional right. While this is a sensitive and often divisive issue, no matter what our views, we must stay united in our determination to prevent unintended pregnancies, support pregnant woman and mothers, reduce the need for abortion, encourage healthy relationships, and promote adoption. And as we remember this historic anniversary, we must also continue our efforts to ensure that our daughters have the same rights, freedoms, and opportunities as our sons to fulfill their dreams.

*Categories:* Statements by the President : Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision, 39th anniversary*.*

*Subjects:* Adoption; Health and medical care : Abortion; Health and medical care : Contraception and family planning; Judiciary : Supreme Court :: Roe v. Wade decision, 39th anniversary.

*DCPD Number:* DCPD201200044.