DU is Committed to Providing Access to Reproductive Care

Dear DU community members,

For many at DU and nationwide, the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, overturning Roe v. Wade, has created anxiety, distress, frustration and deep concern. The country has been polarized even further, and the full repercussions of the decision are still yet to be determined.

While the country seeks clarity in and outside the court system—and as we process the impact of this decision in our classrooms and the community—the University of Denver unequivocally affirms that it is committed to providing and supporting access to sexual health and reproductive rights, including abortion, as guaranteed under Colorado law. The healthcare insurance offered to faculty and staff has not changed and continues to cover access to sexual health and reproductive care where it is legal to obtain it, as it is in Colorado.

Our students have access to health care coverage through the Health and Counseling Center (HCC), which covers sexual health and reproductive care. They also have access to inclusive health services at the HCC, which includes referrals for abortion and other pregnancy services. The HCC sent a message to all students sharing this information shortly after the Dobbs decision. We will continue to share relevant and important information with students in the coming weeks and months.

Many in our community may wish to participate in discourse and advocacy in the wake of this legal decision. Guarding free speech and freedom of expression at our University, and nationally, is one of our most sacred values. As a community, we will protect the rights of all members to exercise free speech, freedom of assembly, and freedom of expression as their beliefs dictate in response to these decisions.

Earlier this summer, just following the Dobbs decision, we hosted a Community + Values conversation discussing some of the complexities of the ruling which we continue to carefully examine. You can watch a recording of that conversation here.

We will provide updates to the community as more information about the impact of the Dobbs decisions becomes available and clear, including addressing questions related to out-of-state travel and healthcare.

Sincerely,