In response to the leaked Supreme Court memo signaling a likely overturning of Roe v. Wade, Jewish Center for Justice Chairperson Julie Bank and Lawyers’ Committee co-chair Ariella Simonds issued the following joint statement:
“We are outraged at what looks to be the imminent overturning of Roe v. Wade. Although we have been bracing for this moment after witnessing an unrelenting assault on abortion rights over many years, we held onto a hope that the justices would be faithful to their statements during their confirmation hearings that they viewed Roe as settled law. This decision, should it become final, will have dreadful consequences for individuals capable of becoming pregnant. It will also represent a startling departure from the Supreme Court’s commitment to stare decisis (staying true to prior court rulings) and has the potential to undermine other key rights and freedoms that were established by Supreme Court decisions.
“To those who are feeling scared and alone, know that we are here for you. As a faith-based organization, our doors are open to work with all who are experiencing trauma at this moment. We also want to make clear that, although this memo is reportedly authentic, it is not yet final. At this time, it is a draft, and abortion access remains a constitutionally protected right.
“In the coming weeks and months, we will work with our coalition partners, like-minded faith communities, and elected officials to strengthen abortion access at the state level. We will continue to support programs in underserved areas that help individuals in need access abortions, abortion funds, and abortion travel. Of paramount importance, we must also use this moment to call for an end to the filibuster so that reproductive rights can be codified in federal law while the pro-choice majority retains control of Congress and the White House.”