| Richmond – Today, former Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn, the only Jewish woman currently serving in the General Assembly, and Delegate Delores McQuinn, an Associate Pastor in Eastern Henrico, hosted a panel discussion kicking-off an interfaith coalition of clergy and people of faith in support of reproductive liberty and opposed to proposed abortion bans at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.
Today’s kick-off grew out of a June 30th event on religious liberty hosted by Speaker Filler-Corn featuring Rabbis, a physician, and other Jewish leaders condemning abortion bans proposed by Governor Youngkin and Republican legislators, which are in conflict with Jewish law.
“This morning, Governor Youngkin spoke of building on economic success, which occurred under Democratic leadership, but a Commonwealth that hinders access to healthcare for pregnant Virginians would deter major employers from investing here,” said Delegate Eileen Filler-Corn, 56th Speaker of the Virginia House. “Governor Youngkin’s proposed abortion bans are not just a danger to our health, they infringe upon the religious beliefs of Jewish Virginians, and millions of other people of faith. This sets a dangerous precedent that imposes the religious views of one group upon others. I look forward to organizing more events with clergy and people of faith throughout the Commonwealth in the coming weeks.”
“Now, more than ever, we must come together as people of faith and every walk of life to speak in support of reproductive health rights for Virginians. Women are capable of making decisions for our own reproductive healthcare and that are in best interest of our families,” added Delegate Delores McQuinn. “We refuse to sit silently as attempts are being made to relegate women to second class citizens, once again. My concerns go far beyond the issue of reproductive rights, but the reality is that this is an attempt to control mind, body and spirit.”
Participants in today’s discussion
Dr. Janet K Copeland
St. John’s Baptist Church
Shabina Shahnawaz
Muslim Educator and Activist
Reverend Dr. MarQuita Carmichael
Assistant University Pastor at Virginia Union University
Reverend Dr. Lacette Cross
Restoration Fellowship RVA
Reverend Dr. April M. Eikerenkoetter
Associate Minister at St. Paul’s Baptist Church |
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