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January 21, 2005/Shevat 11 5765, Vol. 57, No. 21
Groups see showdown on abortion rights
MATTHEW E. BERGER
Jewish Telegraphic Agency
WASHINGTON - Jewish groups are hoping to enlist rabbis in the struggle to ensure that abortion rights are not eroded during President George W. Bush's second term.
A coalition of organizations, led by the National Council of Jewish Women, is asking rabbis across the country to sign a letter that would be sent to U.S. senators if a new Supreme Court nominee is announced, as is expected in the next few years.
The letter approaches the abortion issue from a religious liberty perspective, arguing that if the procedure is made illegal, Jews will be prevented from following their religious teachings - which mandate abortions in rare circumstances when the life of the mother is threatened.
Advocates on both sides of the debate are expecting a fight if a Supreme Court justice announces retirement and attention turns to choosing a replacement.
The goal of the letter is to show that not all people of faith oppose abortion rights.
"The religious right has succeeded and clearly established a feeling in this country that people of faith are against choice," NCJW President Marsha Atkind said. "But that isn't the case, and we need to make that very clear."
Most Reform and Conservative rabbis support abortion rights, and both movements are reaching out to their members to get them to sign the letter.
The Orthodox Union does not participate in abortion debates because of the complexity of Halacha on the issue. Agudath Israel of America opposes the current abortion laws, and seeks laws that would allow abortions only in exceptional cases and when mandated by religious law.
Jewish leaders believe a statement from a diverse list of rabbis would carry more weight with senators than rallies and other overt efforts to show support for choice.
"They speak with a kind of moral authority and are compelling speakers," said Sammie Moshenberg, NCJW's Washington director. "The presence of a long list of rabbis on a letter will make senators stand up and take notice."
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