Local LGBTQ community members share concerns about Supreme Court draft opinion
In the leaked Supreme Court draft opinion, Justice Samuel Alito said quote "Nothing in this opinion should be understood to cast doubt on precedents that do not concern abortion."
However, local LGBTQ+ advocates are not convinced.
"What I'm most worried about is that the court is setting a precedent that we don't have a federal constitutional right to liberty and privacy," said Palm Springs City Councilmember Geoff Kors. "And that includes the right to be with a person you love."
Kors is also a former civil rights attorney and advocate for LGBTQ rights.
"It's going to impact a lot of rights. It really goes right to the heart of the constitution's protection and promise of liberty," said Kors. "That includes people's right to make private decisions in their personal lives."
Kors used to be the executive director of Equality California and helped pass the gay marriage bill and legislation in the state.
"I mean, there's case after case in history where the court has said that people have a right to liberty in the United States," said Kors.
Roe v. Wade gives a "Right to privacy" that protects a woman's choice to have an abortion. Giving them bodily autonomy which is the right to govern one's body.
Thomi Clinton is the founder and CEO of the Transgender Health and Wellness Center.
"Having body autonomy is very important to trans people, and being able to transition and to address their gender dysphoria," said Clinton. "But now they're going to be addressing body autonomy. Because is it just going to be for reproductive purposes for the individuals? Or is it going to be the entire body?"
She's worried these recent events with the leak will add more trauma and burdens to the trans community. Making them feel more isolated.
"Trans people, they have an enormous level of suicide," said Clinton.
Kors said it's important to remember that change is possible at the ballot box this November.
"So whatever people's view, on either side for that matter, people need to register and vote. That's how we can most impact the results here," said Kors.
The final decision on Roe v. Wade is expected by late June or early July.
