Then is (almost) Now for Reproductive Rights
  • January 10, 2022 | Klau Library Blog | Author:

    Contributed by Chana Wolfson, Assistant Judaica Librarian

    Where does Reform Judaism stand on the question of reproductive choice, including the legality of abortion? Materials in the Klau Library from the 1970s through today demonstrate that Reform Jewish institutions in America were early promoters of public statements supporting reproductive choice and legal abortion, and continue with their support through the present day.

    In 1967, the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR), Union of American Hebrew Congregation (UAHC), now the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ), National Federation of Temple Sisterhoods, now Women of Reform Judaism (WRJ), and other Reform Jewish organizations joined an interfaith coalition to advocate for abortion rights called the Religious Coalition for Abortion Rights, now the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice (RCRC). In addition to political advocacy, these organizations support individual clergy, educate about religion and reproductive choice, and provide information in response to claims against reproductive choice.

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