The North Carolina Council of Churches has historically advocated for a comprehensive approach to reproductive justice that considers the broader social, economic, and ethical aspects of reproductive health.
While we acknowledge the diverse perspectives within our member denominations regarding issues such as abortion, we have advocated for a compassionate approach that prioritizes the well-being and autonomy of individuals. We support policies that protect the health and safety of pregnant individuals, including access to safe and legal abortion when necessary.
Will will continue to advocate for women’s reproductive rights and access to comprehensive healthcare.
Overview
In 1970, even before the Supreme Court ruling in 1973 that recognized a woman’s constitutional right to obtain an abortion without excessive government restrictions, the Council urged faith communities, faith leaders, physicians, and hospitals to support the right of women to seek a “therapeutic abortion” in cases of “problem pregnancy.” We recognized that abortion has been a part of human history and believed that denying legal protection would force those in desperate need of ending a pregnancy into hazardous, expensive, and time-consuming situations.
The Council believes that reproductive choice is a healthcare decision, and women should be able to make those decisions without embarrassment, excessive cost, and unwarranted delay.
Council Resources
Over 1,200 Religious People Spoke Against Senate Bill 20
The North Carolina Council of Churches, in collaboration with our allies, took a significant step in advocating for reproductive rights by co-authoring a letter addressed to every member of the General Assembly on May 16, 2023. The letter urged the legislators to support the Governor’s Veto of Senate Bill 20, a highly restrictive bill concerning reproductive rights. We emphasized the need for collaboration and the crafting of legislation that would genuinely benefit Women, Children, and Families. The letter garnered substantial support, with over 1200 religious individuals in North Carolina signing it. Regrettably, despite our efforts, the General Assembly voted to override the veto, and the bill will become law. Read the full letter here.
Denominational Members’ Resources
Episcopal Church
Summary of General Convention Resolutions on Abortion and Women’s Reproductive Health
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
A Social Statement on: Abortion
General Baptist State Convention of North Carolina
Baptist leaders call on N.C. lawmakers to override impending veto of 12-week abortion ban
Presbyterian Church, USA
Abortion/Reproductive Choice Issues
Reproductive justice and the PC(USA)
On Affirming Reproductive Justice
United Church of Christ
United Methodist Church
Other Resources
Available Abortion Funds
The National Network of Abortion Funds (NNAF) is a collective of local abortion
funds that work with folks to reduce financial and logistical barriers to access. The Carolina Abortion Fund (CAF) is a NNAF affiliate active in North and South Carolina.
A Guide for Accessing Reproductive Healthcare in North Carolina
Plan C Access
Plan C Pills is an online resource for obtaining abortion pills for self-managed care.
Abortion and Religion
Many people believe that Christianity and Christians are against abortion. This has neither been the dominant position through Christian history nor is it a position shared by all contemporary Christians. In fact, many Christian churches support women’s moral decision-making around their reproductive experiences.
Pro-Choice NC Resources
Reproductive Justice Statements
The Council takes positions on issues through policy statements that inform, guide, and frame our work. Policy statements are adopted by our governing body, often upon the recommendation of one or more of the Council’s program committees which are made up of representatives of our member bodies.
- Resolution on Reproductive Health (9/13/2022)
Reproductive Justice Partner Organizations
Below is a list of our partners statewide with a link to their website for more information:
Pro-Choice North Carolina
SACReD (Spiritual Alliance of Communities for Reproductive Dignity)
Planned Parenthood South Atlantic
Ways to Take Action
Get Involved with Pro-Choice NC
Join the Rapid Response Squad!
Join the Pro-Choice NC Rapid Response Squad and become part of their growing network of activists ready to spring into action!
Volunteer
Sign up for opportunities to help canvass, phone bank, engage in local campaigns, or support our events.
Host an Action Event
Raise awareness in your community and let elected officials know their constituents care about protecting access to abortion.
Write to the Editor
Letters to the editor can be a quick way to raise your voice and make an impact in your community, with elected officials, and in the media. Your voice is your power!