NCJW Welcomes Approval of New Emergency Contraception
August 17, 2010, Washington, DC — The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) welcomes the Friday, August 13 approval of the new emergency contraceptive pill “ella” by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). NCJW President Nancy Ratzan released the following statement:
“FDA approval of the new contraceptive pill ‘ella’ is a victory for women in need of a reliable contraceptive that will be effective taken up to five days after unprotected sex. Its quick approval is also a victory for the restoration of science-based decision making to the federal policy process.
“It is now up to those charged with regulating pharmacies — primarily the states — to ensure that this welcome improvement in contraceptive options is readily available to all who need it, regardless of the individual objections of pharmacists or their employees on the erroneous grounds that it may cause abortions.”
The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. Plan A: NCJW’s Campaign for Contraceptive Access is a community-based, proactive national campaign firmly rooted in the belief that contraceptive access is essential for women’s well-being and equality.
Contact: Emily Alfano
202 296 2588 × 5; emily@ncjwdc.org