Mexican bishops, activists mobilize against legalization of abortion in Mexico City

Puebla, Mexico, Nov 8, 2024 / 12:55 pm (CNA).

As a legislative measure that “seeks the total decriminalization of abortion” in Mexico City moves forward, the Catholic Church in the country is expressing its opposition and concern, with Mexico’s bishops pointing out that, as pastors, they cannot “remain silent” in the face of what they consider a threat to the fundamental right to life.

The Administration and Procurement of Justice and Gender Equality Committees of the Mexico City Congress voted Nov. 4 in favor of the proposal that seeks to eliminate the articles of the Penal Code that penalize voluntary induced abortion, maintaining only forced abortion punishable by law.

In a Nov. 6 statement, the Mexican Bishops’ Conference warned that, contrary to what those defending the measure claim, eliminating the current limit of abortion at 12 weeks of gestation — already permitted in Mexico City — “would open the door to the termination of pregnancy at any time.”

The bishops also pointed out that this measure “puts women’s health and lives at risk by creating the false perception that abortion is safe and the only option when faced with a pregnancy in difficult circumstances.”

They also warned that, if approved, the reform could become a precedent that “will spread to other states in the republic.”

The measure has not been scheduled for a vote by a full session of the Congress, and late Wednesday, the news media outlet Infobae reported that the measure has been tabled indefinitely.

Infobae reported that the decision to delay further consideration of the measure was partially in response to protests by pro-life groups in front of the Legislature’s facilities.

Support for women

In their message, the Mexican episcopate urged the Catholic community to “work and accompany all women,” especially those who “go through dramatic and vulnerable situations,” offering them real alternatives and concrete support.

They also asked the faithful to “make our voices heard in the public square” and to promote a “culture of life” that defends the most vulnerable, fostering a society that values ​​and respects human life at all its stages.

“This task challenges us all,” the prelates emphasized.

The bishops reaffirmed their commitment to “continue providing spiritual and material assistance” to those who need it, extending their understanding and love to those women who have experienced the “drama of abortion.”

Finally, the Mexican pastors emphasized that “the right to life is not a question of ideology or simple political opinion” and stressed that human life has a meaning and significance, which “no law can eliminate or change.”

This story was first published by ACI Prensa, CNA’s Spanish-language news partner. It has been translated and adapted by CNA.