Religious Coalition For Reproductive Choice

Programs: Public witness: developing religious leader of moral courage- developing skilled organizers, theologians and policy advocates at the intersection of reproductive health, rights and justice is critical to rcrc's mission. Our goal is to expand and connect networks of religious leaders so that rcrc can achieve a more coordinated organizing impact. This aspect of our work encompasses one of rcrc's flagship projects: pastoral care training for reproductive decision-making and loss is a training program that addresses the complexities of reproductive decisions and the depth of grief at the experience of reproductive loss. This training program is a leadership development program that allows rcrc to identify religious leaders who have the potential to transform into advocates, public theologians, organizers and outspoken clergy in their congregations and communities.

visibility: amplifying the voices of religious leaders rcrc is training religious and lay leaders with research tested messages and communication strategies to deliver these messages. This includes op-ed writing, letters to the editor, social media and building a cadre of leaders poised to do both local and high profile print, television and radio interviews. Additionally, our policy advocacy and coalition building work are tied to our overall communications strategy. Our movement needs a more visible network of religious leaders publically supporting access to contraception, abortion, and other reproductive health options, both in the pastoral and political spheres.

southern program: building our base at the local level - rcrc's commitment to building our grassroots strength at the local level is central to our mission. In addition to partnering with our 11 affiliates across the country, rcrc also is focused on building networks and organizing efforts in the south. Our goal with our local work is to bring together religious leaders to organize, mobilize, engage in policy advocacy and amplify the faith voice in a region where health indicators for women are abysmal, access to reproductive health services is limited, and issues of faith and racial justice play a critical role in people's lives.