D083 Addressing the erosion of reproductive rights and autonomy
Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring,
That the 80th General Convention recognizes that pregnancy and childbirth are dangerous undertakings that risk permanent disability and death for those who bear children; and be it further
Resolved, that the Episcopal Church reaffirms that parenthood “should be initiated only advisedly and in full accord with this understanding of the power to conceive and give birth which is bestowed by God” (1988-C047); and be it further;
Resolved, that the Episcopal Church recognizes that access to abortion is a key element in preserving the health, independence, and autonomy of those who can bear children; and be it further;
Resolved, that the 80th General Convention affirms that all Episcopalians should be able to access abortion services and birth control with no restriction on movement, autonomy, type, or timing; and be it further
Resolved, that the 80th General Convention understands that the protection of religious liberty extends to all Episcopalians who may need or desire to access, to utilize, to aid others in the procurement of, or to offer abortion services.
Explanation
As a Church, we have held a nuanced, carefully considered stance on access to abortion since the 1960s. In the current political climate, there is increasing political pressure restricting access to abortion and other forms of reproductive health care above and beyond our own faithfully considered boundaries. In some cases, these political and legal restrictions are so broadly constructed that they disallow access to necessary health care for miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy (a deadly condition), and contraception. This resolution reaffirms our stance, reemphasizes our stance, and underscores the religious foundation for our stance.