CLINTON — Hamilton College will present its 2022 Constitution Day Lecture on Friday, Sept. 30, at 4 p.m., in the Chapel.

Mary Ziegler, professor of law at University of California, Davis, will present, “Canary in the Coal Mine: What Happens When We Lose a Constitutional Right?” Ziegler will speak on reproductive rights and related issues in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe vs. Wade.

The event is free.

In addressing the topic, Ziegler said the nation can move beyond polarization.

“We can achieve a better dialogue and fairer future for all,” she said.

Widely hailed as a non-partisan authority on the Constitution and the legal history of reproductive rights, Ziegler is the author of four acclaimed books, and a frequent contributor to The New York Times and The Atlantic.

“There’s a lot of demonization of people we don’t agree with that stems from a lack of empathy,” she said. “This isn’t a women’s issue, it’s a democracy issue.”

As a lawyer, Ziegler said she understands how the courts affect every facet of our lives; as a historian, she investigates how the nation got to this level of political division and polarization — and how it can get itself out. 

Her newest book, “Dollars for Life,” traces how the battle to reverse Roe vs. Wade changed the rules around the economy, elections, and democracy at large. Her previous three books offer a compelling view of American abortion law and politics, and how they connect to trust in the justice system. She has provided critical commentary and expertise to news outlets including CNN, NPR, Bloomberg TV, The Washington Post, and The New York Times.