National Council of Jewish Women Support DOJ Lawsuit Against Texas Abortion Ban

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 9, 2021

Media Contact:
Alyson Malinger, West End Strategy Team
amalinger@westendstrategy.com; 917-935-7311

National Council of Jewish Women Support DOJ Lawsuit Against Texas Abortion Ban

WASHINGTON — Following the announcement of the Department of Justice lawsuit against the state of Texas to block its six-week abortion ban, a legacy Jewish women’s organization, National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW), and its over 200,000 advocates are joining in support of the DOJ’s stance that the ban is “clearly unconstitutional under longstanding Supreme Court precedent,” particularly on grounds of religious freedom. Sheila Katz, NCJW’s CEO, issued the following statement: 

“We applaud the Department of Justice for taking a critical first step in protecting access to reproductive healthcare. The lawsuit by the Department of Justice can once again restore the rights that the Texas state government has violated. Abortion is a constitutional right and any denial of coverage or access to this necessary healthcare is a violation of religious freedom. 

“National Council of Jewish Women is committed to increasing abortion access because we are a Jewish organization, not despite it. Our tradition views abortion as essential health care, not only permitted but in some cases commanded when a life is at risk. 

“All women and pregnant people deserve access to the broad range of reproductive health care, including abortions in clinics and self-managed abortions. To prevent Texas’ law from becoming a precedent and ensuring real, lasting change, the Women’s Health Protection Act needs to pass through Congress and be signed into law. Only then with federal legislation can we safeguard against bans and medically unnecessary restrictions.”

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National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of 200,000 volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. Through a program of education, community service, and advocacy, our advocates across the country create lasting social change on our key issues of the federal courts; reproductive health, rights, and justice, and voter engagement. More information on Facebook and on Twitter at @NCJW.