The dominant narrative in the United States often portrays religion as inherently opposed to abortion, largely due to the influence of certain Christian groups. However, the reality is more complex: the majority of religious individuals in the United States actually support legal access to abortion. For decades, Jewish communities have played a key role in challenging this narrative and advancing reproductive rights. In this session, we will explore how Jews have been at the forefront of this advocacy—through efforts in women’s health, legal action, religious engagement, and the power of personal storytelling around abortion.

Michal Raucher is Associate Professor of Jewish Studies at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, where she teaches courses on religion and reproduction, women and gender in religion, and Israel/Palestine.