Statement on behalf of staff at the Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed:
Together, we stand in solidarity against the reversal of Roe v. Wade, a violation against reproductive rights, which have been guaranteed to the American people for almost half a century. Our hearts and minds are with all those affected by this devastating blow to women and birthing people’s right to bodily autonomy – the human right to make decisions over one’s own life and future.
We recognize that the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) ruling jeopardizes the health and safety of women and people who may become pregnant by cutting off access to reproductive care.
A healthy Delaware River Watershed is not just ecologically sound waters, wildlife, and habitat - it is one that provides equitable access to clean water, open space, outdoor recreation, and economic opportunity to all communities. The ruling to overturn Roe v. Wade not only denies reproductive and healthcare rights for millions of people, but also puts their economic well being at risk.
Furthermore, we know that Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) communities who have struggled for access to safe reproductive care - even prior to this ruling - are the same communities that have faced decades of environmental injustices. The ruling to overturn Roe v. Wade will continue to disproportionately impact and heighten the many injustices these communities face.
We are thankful that the watershed can be a refuge to those seeking safe reproductive care as the watershed states - New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware - remain committed to protecting reproductive rights through their state policies.
This fight against injustices does not end with Roe v. Wade. We also stand with and support the LGBTQIA+ community, whose fundamental rights have also been put in jeopardy given other cases on the horizon being considered by SCOTUS.
The Supreme Court ruling teaches us all an important lesson: our voice matters. Vote! Elections have powerful consequences that result in lived impacts for communities throughout the watershed and beyond. Election day in the United States is November 8, 2022.
Below are important dates for state elections in the basin:
New Jersey
The deadline to register to vote is Tuesday, October 18, 2022 (21 days before the General Election).
The deadline to request a vote-by-mail ballot by mail or online is Tuesday, November 1, 2022.
The early voting period runs from Saturday, October 29, 2022 to Saturday, November 5, 2022, but dates and hours may vary based on where you live.
New York
The deadline to register to vote by mail (postmarked by) is Friday, October 14, 2022.
The deadline to register in-person is Friday, October 14, 2022.
The early voting period runs from Saturday, October 19, 2022, to Sunday, November 6, 2022, but dates and hours may vary based on where you live.
Pennsylvania
The deadline to register to vote (includes mail postmarked by) is Monday, October 24, 2022.
The deadline to request a mail-in or absentee ballot is (received by) Tuesday, November 1, 2022 at 5 p.m
Delaware
The deadline for registering to vote is (includes mail postmarked by) Saturday, October 15, 2022.