Protecting Equal Healthcare Access for All

A statement from WE CEO Melissa Waggener Zorkin to WE Employees

Many of us have been shaken by the draft decision from the U.S. Supreme Court indicating Roe v. Wade may be overturned soon, which would lead to immediate restrictions on women’s ability to make fundamental choices about their health in many states. I am personally angry about the likely impacts to women’s human rights and reproductive health.

As the largest female-founded, female-led agency in the world, WE has always worked to empower women in their lives and careers, especially when over 70% of our people in the U.S. identify as such. Striving for equality is the bedrock on which we have always stood. We fully believe in equal rights for all — including access to healthcare — and that our laws should protect everyone.

That belief extends to our benefits, which offer equal access to safe healthcare for everyone. That’s why as an agency, we have already committed to reimbursement of travel expenses related to reproductive healthcare and abortion for those who need to seek care outside the state in which they reside. We will expand that benefit as needed following the final Supreme Court decision. We also provide resources and programs, including paid time off and employee assistance, so you can care for yourself and for your loved ones in times of need.

I know this is an intensely personal issue and a difficult conversation. Undoubtedly there will be more discourse ahead, and the court’s decision could lead to broader impacts on fundamental human rights affecting marginalized communities. There may be some people at WE who disagree with me about aspects of what I’ve said here. I need you to know I respect you and the fact that you have a different perspective. It is imperative we continue treating each other with respect — always — and fostering the culture of inclusion that makes our WE community so strong. You can also use your 24 Community Engagement hours to make your voice heard as you choose.

WE will always be a fierce champion for equality and human rights for all. Thank you for your humanity, for engaging respectfully, and for your ongoing dedication to caring for yourselves and each other.