NJ Reproductive Rights Activists Rally In Newark (VIDEO)

NEWARK, NJ — Activists with Planned Parenthood and the National Organization for Women of New Jersey joined first lady Tammy Murphy and Sen. Bob Menendez at a rally for reproductive rights in Newark on Monday.

The rally took place on the steps of the Essex County Historic Courthouse. It also included an appearance from Essex County Executive Joe DiVincenzo Jr. (watch the video below).

The Planned Parenthood Action Fund of New Jersey said the rally was held to urge Garden State leaders to “protect and expand access to abortion, birth control and prenatal care” by passing the Reproductive Freedom Act.

The proposed state law would enshrine several reproductive health care rights into New Jersey code and remove "medically unnecessary" regulations that block access to care, including abortions.

• See related article: New Jersey Sees Renewed Push For 'Reproductive Freedom Act'

Advocates said Monday’s rally was also held to “highlight what’s at stake” as the U.S. Supreme Court of the United States considers whether to uphold a controversial Texas law that has caused a virtual halt of abortions in the state. If the court rules in favor of the Texas law, it could set precedent for future legal battles on abortion across the country, including New Jersey.

According to a statement from Sen. Menendez:

“The Texas law, known as S.B.8, bans abortions after six weeks with no exceptions for rape or incest. The law also allows private citizens to sue doctors and anyone who ‘aids and abets’ a woman seeking an abortion. The Supreme Court heard oral arguments on the two cases tied to S.B.8 last week.”

“Rights without access are meaningless,” said Rahbbea Norton-Lee, associate medical director of Planned Parenthood of Northern, Central and Southern New Jersey.

“No matter a person’s income or zip code, insurance status or immigration status, no one should be denied the ability to get an abortion, continue a pregnancy, or access affordable birth control options,” Norton-Lee said.

Murphy said the question of whether or when to start a family is a personal one.

“Reckless new laws limiting or dismantling Roe v. Wade will only serve to endanger the health and safety of millions of people without wealth, privilege or power, and particularly women of color,” she urged. “When the Reproductive Freedom Act is sent to [Gov. Phil Murphy’s] desk to be signed, we will be one step closer to a future that protects the health, dignity and autonomy of every New Jerseyan.”

Menendez also referenced the landmark Roe v. Wade case, saying the threat to it has “never been graver.”

“And that is why our commitment to reproductive rights must be stronger and louder and more unshakeable than ever,” he said. “It should not matter if you live in New Jersey or New York or Texas or Mississippi – the right to make private medical decisions is protected by the U.S. Constitution and belongs to every American.”

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