Dear Ruth Bader Ginsburg, 

I hope you are resting in peace. Resting in peace knowing that the rights of millions of people in the United States have been stripped. Resting in peace knowing the overturning of Roe v. Wade can be partially blamed on you. I have so much respect for all you have done for women’s rights throughout your lifetime; without your monumental assistance women would not have nearly the same freedoms that we do in 2022.

However, when your supporters claim you are perfect and a hero to all, I cannot help but disagree. 

In 1973, Roe v. Wade was passed in the Supreme Court, stating the rights to abortions were constitutional. For almost 50 years, this ruling saved the lives of people of all races, genders, and incomes. Following your death, the Supreme Court voted to overturn the right to legal abortions on a national level.

It was up to each state to individually decide whether or not they would be accessible. The result of this case was a 6-3 vote to get rid of basic healthcare. I find your selfish decision to stay on the Supreme Court at the root of this decision. 

I understand your personal reasoning to remain on the Court, despite the terminal diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, was to have female representation as long as possible. But Ruth, let me ask you this, why didn’t you just ask Obama to only nominate women as your successor?

Between 2009-2013 the Democratic party had control of the Senate (who approves Supreme Court nominees). I am sure whoever Barack Obama put forward to replace your seat would have gone through. 

So now I superficially thank you.

Because of your decision to remain on the Supreme Court, people who have the ability to get pregnant but are poor, of color, or not cisgendered are now in positions where safe abortions could be impossible to receive. 

Your legacy on the Supreme Court and our nation will forever be impactful. You are well known mostly for caring about women and minorities. But if you truly care, how could you choose to stay in your comfortable position rather than ensure safe futures for millions of people? 

An agríngated woman in America, 

Sydney Steiner