Statement on the U.S. Supreme Court Ruling Overturning Roe v. Wade

Colorado. (June 24, 2022) – The Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of JEWISHcolorado decries today’s Supreme Court Ruling overturning Roe v. Wade, a 50-year Constitutional right that protected women’s and other individuals’ access to abortion within certain parameters. The JCRC denounces government imposition of religious beliefs on others undermining the well-being of the Jewish community in America. Restriction of abortion, made possible by overturning Roe v. Wade, violates this principle, as it allows for the imposition of a narrow religious perspective on the entire nation.

The Dobbs ruling would permit a double infringement on the rights of American Jews.  Even under its strictest, most traditional interpretation, Jewish law mandates the termination of a pregnancy in certain circumstances involving the life or health of the mother.  While we respect other religions’ belief that life begins at conception, Jewish law has no such dictate. Accordingly, this decision effectively allows for the elevation of one religious viewpoint over others, and the infringement upon Jewish pregnant individuals’ right to follow the tenets of their faith.

This decision will leave the country divided such that individuals in some states will have limited or no right to abortion, even in the event of rape or when their physical or mental health is at risk. This will be particularly felt by the poorest of our country who will be unable to travel across state lines and be subject to dangerous conditions if seeking an abortion.

To protect religious freedom, the JCRC joined a coalition of organizations supporting the Reproductive Health Equity Act, signed by Governor Polis on April 4.  We thank the Governor and Colorado legislators for continuing to protect fundamental rights. The JCRC stands vigilant against further infringement against religious liberties.