Supreme Court Decision Overturning Roe v. Wade

Dear Temple Beth El Family, 

The Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization overruling the decades of precedent set forth in Roe v. Wade is no surprise. We have all been preparing for the possibility of this day. The court’s decision today is no less troubling. As we wrote to you in May when the opinion was first leaked, we recognize that individual members have differing views on abortion, and we respect the diversity of opinions in our congregation. But that is not the issue at hand. This decision affects not only access to necessary healthcare for women but as one of the justices noted, it raises the potential for future challenges to other constitutionally protected rights as well. We have already heard from many congregants who are scared and angry, and we suspect that there are many more who have yet to reach out. For those of you who have more questions than answers or are scared or concerned: we see you and we hear you. 

As we take time to understand the impact that this ruling will have, we will focus on listening to our congregants and understanding how Jewish tradition, values, and the interpretation of Jewish law can inform our advocacy and action. We will also explore what actions local organizational partners and the Reform Movement will take. Throughout this process, we want to hear from you.

Please click here to share your thoughts and perspective on the Supreme Court’s decision. We would like to hear from as many people as possible and your privacy will be respected. If you want to talk and connect with a member of the clergy, do not hesitate to reach out through email or the form. Finally, if you would like to connect with other congregants who share a passion for reproductive rights or if you want to keep informed about ways to get more involved, please contact Nicole Sidman.

We invite you to join us for Shabbat Evening Service this evening at 6:00pm, led by Rabbi Asher Knight, Rabbi Dusty Klass, and our summer-intern Rebecca Gundersheim.

At uncertain times, we listen to the wisdom of our tradition. Heading into the unknown, Moses challenged our ancient ancestors to stand: atem nitzavim hayom kulchem–“You stand here, all of you, this day” (Deut. 29:9). As a congregation, we choose to stand with words like “God” and “goodness” and peace. We choose to stand in acts of defiance in the face of despair. We stand to assert the radical good: that God is in our midst, in our refutations of all forms of evil, in human decency, in striving for a better tomorrow. In times that may feel dark, we can keep God’s dream of Shalom burning bright with us, by bringing peace through us, in a world that can surely be made more whole.

L’shalom,

Rabbi Asher Knight
Benjamin Benson, President
Alan Kronovet, President Elect
Rabbi Judy Schindler
Cantor Mary Rebecca Thomas
Rabbi Beth Nichols
Rabbi Lexi Erdheim
Jonathan Friedman, COO