Rep. Gabe Vasquez Stands for Reproductive Freedom at UNM’s Center for Reproductive Health Groundbreaking

LAS CRUCES, N.M. – On Thursday, September 5, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (N.M.-02) spoke at the groundbreaking of the University of New Mexico (UNM)’s Center for Reproductive Health in Las Cruces. Vasquez emphasized his commitment to standing up for a woman’s right to choose and ensuring equitable health care in New Mexico.

“Today’s groundbreaking is a testament to our determination to ensure reproductive health care is accessible to everyone. This Center will save lives, defend reproductive freedom and ensure those seeking reproductive health care services in Southern New Mexico are treated with dignity and care.” said Vasquez. “We can all agree that this is not a place for government interference. These are personal decisions between patients seeking reproductive health care, their doctors, their faith and their families.”

The Center is a collaboration between UNM Health, Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains, Bold Futures and Strong Families. Vasquez was joined by New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, health care practitioners and community advocates. 

The new Center for Reproductive Health will provide abortions, miscarriage management, contraception options, pregnancy loss support, women’s preventative care, adoption education and resources and limited primary care for health screenings and cancer prevention.

Vasquez is championing the Women’s Health Protection Act in Congress, which would protect the right to access reproductive health care across the country. He has also led the Access to Family Building Act, which would protect New Mexicans’ right to use fertility options, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).

During his remarks, Vasquez also talked about New Mexico’s high maternal mortality rate and the existing disparities. He emphasized the importance of equitable health care and how the new Center will support New Mexico’s underserved communities.

In Congress, Vasquez will keep fighting to codify Roe versus Wade and ensure that all women, regardless of where they live, can access the health care services they need.

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