Planned 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.

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Planned Parenthood is the nation's leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable health care for women, men, and young people, as well as the nation's largest provider of sex education. With more than 600 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect and without judgment. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable health information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives.