Press Release: 2020-09-23
Planned Parenthood Federation of America Clergy Advocacy Board Release Statement on the Death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
For Immediate Release: Sept. 22, 2020Planned Parenthood Federation of America Clergy Advocacy Board Release Statement on the Death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Clergy honor her legacy of equality, freedom, and opportunity, rooted in Jewish faith
WASHINGTON, DC — The Clergy Advocacy Board of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America issued the following statement on Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s death.
“The Clergy Advocacy Board of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America mourns the death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a powerful leader in our movement for justice. This is a deeply painful loss for our country.
A framed phrase from the Bible hung on the wall of her United States Supreme Court chamber: 'Justice, justice shall you pursue.' These words of Hebrew Scripture speak to her legacy of equality, freedom, and opportunity. Her Jewish faith was evident in her life as a fierce champion and fighter for women, for communities of color, for reproductive health, rights and justice and for so much more.
We take particular note that Justice Ginsburg's death coincides with the opening of the Jewish New Year, when Jews worldwide gather in prayer, reflection, and to hear the call of the shofar, the hollowed-out ram's horn. The shofar beckons the soul heavenward in self-reflection, and outward, so that we renew and deepen our commitment to carry on the sacred calling of devoting ourselves to the betterment of others.
So shall the memory and acts of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg continue to bless us, our children, and generations to come.”
Background on the Planned Parenthood Federation of America Clergy Advocacy Board:
Building on the long history of faith leaders taking an active role in supporting reproductive health care, the Clergy Advocacy Board has been working with Planned Parenthood at the national and state levels to further the goal of full reproductive rights and freedom for all people for more than two decades. Its members, who are dedicated clergy and faith leaders from different denominations and communities throughout the U.S., lead a national effort to increase public awareness of the theological and moral basis for advocating reproductive health.