Large Protest for Women’s Rights in Downtown Long Beach

Long Beach citizens gathered outside the Governor George Deukmejian Courthouse on Friday to protest the recent news that Roe v. Wade had been overturned by the Supreme Court.

On Friday, June 24, from 6-8 p.m., many gathered outside the Governor George Deukmejian Courthouse to protest the recent news that Roe v. Wade had been overturned by the Supreme Court, which takes away a woman’s right to safe and legal abortions. This “Bans Off Our Bodies” protest rallied for abortion rights and other reproductive freedoms. 

The event was organized by Long Beach Resister Sisters and LB/OC Women Rising There were many guest speakers, such as Lisa Del Sesto, the Circle Coordinator of LB/OC Women Rising, and Rex Richardson, the vice mayor of Long Beach. There was also a poster-making station.

The recent Supreme Court decision shocked millions across the nation, but “after the leak of the opinion…I knew it was coming…I didn’t anticipate a happy surprise,” said Del Sesto. “I had a feeling it was going to be today.”

Del Sesto plans on organizing many more events and protests to fight this cause, and shared that “as an organizer with a feminist group, my goal is to put the right people into office that care about women’s rights and care about equality for all…There is a need for more rallies and there will definitely be more rallies [in the future].” 

From inspiring messages being chanted to cars honking as they drove past the courthouse, there was an overwhelming amount of support emerging from the event. 

Mayor Robert Garcia was not able to attend because of a business trip, but he wrote a letter regarding the situation that was read by Vice Mayor Rex Richardson. 

“We cannot afford to lose hope. Right now, we need to fight back. We need to raise our voices and demand that our leaders take action to protect women most endangered by this ruling,” Garcia wrote. “Here in Long Beach, in California, we’re working to protect and expand abortion access, not only in our own community, but for everyone in states around the country who now need to cross borders just to access basic healthcare.” 

As a result of Roe v. Wade being overturned, the legalization of abortions will be up to state governments to decide and enforce. Here in California, abortions are likely to remain available, but unfortunately, this is not the case in many other states. 

“If you need access to an abortion, you are welcome in our city. We will fight radical forces in this country who want to take us backwards,” said Garcia. He claimed that California will remain open to any American women who need an abortion and are unable to receive one in their home state.

To create a membership with LB/OC Women Rising, click here. 

For more information about Roe vs. Wade being overturned, go here. 

By Kate Bell