We, the undersigned faith leaders, reflecting a variety of faith traditions in Colorado, stand in unified opposition to Proposition 115. The measure, which will appear on this November’s statewide ballot, seeks to ban abortions later in pregnancy. It would allow politics to dictate personal health decisions that should be made by a woman and her family in consultation with her healthcare providers.
As religious leaders, we often counsel people through the complex, difficult, and emotionally fraught decision to terminate a pregnancy. We know firsthand that these situations are never simple. We believe that women and families in these situations must be met with grace and compassion, especially when they’re already facing extraordinarily painful and difficult decisions.
One of the most troubling aspects of Proposition 115 is that it is a one-size-fits-all mandate, making no exceptions for survivors of rape or incest, lethal fetal diagnosis, or the health of the woman. It does not account for the medical advice of doctors nor for the autonomy of the woman to make a deeply personal decision regarding her body and her health.
It has long been the case that some of the most vocal supporters of abortion bans in the United States are religious leaders. Together, with the shared values rooted in our various faith traditions, we stand for the rights, dignity, and liberty of women. We also stand alongside the majority of Colorado voters who have struck down three similar attempts to ban abortion in our state over the last twelve years.
Finally, we must acknowledge the plain fact that research has shown that bans on abortion do not reduce the number of overall abortions. They simply make it more difficult and dangerous for women to access the care they need. We believe that everyone deserves access to safe, legal healthcare.
We therefore urge those who call Colorado their home to vote “NO” on Proposition 115 in November. As faith leaders rooted in our vision of a better and more just world, we cannot remain silent when politicians and groups attempt to infringe upon the inherent rights of others, especially when they use their interpretation of their religion as justification to do so. Please join us in striking down this measure and preserving the reproductive liberty of the citizens of Colorado.