To the Case Western Reserve Community:
As some of you may have read, late Friday a 2019 Ohio law banning abortions once a heartbeat is detected—typically about six weeks into a pregnancy—went into effect.
We recognize that this Ohio law and the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision Friday to reverse Roe v. Wade raise a range of questions for our university community, and we are committed to providing answers.
I have convened a task force of campus leaders to explore the ruling’s implications across multiple areas—among them health care, health sciences education, academic freedom, and recruitment and retention.
As part of its work, the task force will engage with experts from within and beyond the university, and provide updates on individual topics as details become clear.
In certain instances, we will not have a complete picture for some time. What I can assure you immediately is that:
• your health and safety continue to be Case Western Reserve’s highest priority,
• we support women’s rights to reproductive health,
• our commitment to academic freedom is unwavering; and
• we will continue to uphold the principles articulated in the university’s policy on freedom of expression.
Please know that we are in communication with student and employee insurance providers about our existing benefits coverage for reproductive health services, as well as any changes required by the Court’s decision or state action.
We also are conferring with our hospital partners and peer institutions regarding their responses to the high court’s decision, including possible adjustments to their policies and practices.
In addition, Provost Vinson met with our school deans yesterday to begin conversations about academic aspects of the decision. As many have written since Friday, the ruling touches on topics ranging from medicine to religion, and social inequities to individual autonomy. Our faculty include scholars renowned for their expertise on these and related subjects. We will draw on their knowledge as part of the task force’s efforts, and also seek opportunities to engage our campus and broader community in open forums this fall.
Finally, I will continue to provide you with updates on the implications of this ruling, both for the health of women and for its impact on our society. In this moment of high emotion and uncertainty, please know that you are part of a supportive community.
Eric W. Kaler
President