Catholic Activists in Mexico Aid Women in Harmonizing Faith and Abortion Rights

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In their Mexico City headquarters, the group Catholics for the Right to Decide displays an image of the Virgin Mary alongside a green scarf proclaiming: “Mary was consulted to be mother of God.” This symbolizes their belief that faith and advocacy for abortion rights are not mutually exclusive. The group, embracing Catholic traditions, also supports LGBTQ+ rights.

Cinthya Ramírez, an activist with the organization, expresses a common misconception: “Many believe that being a feminist and a Catholic is contradictory.” However, she asserts that their faith does not hinder their advocacy for progress, human rights, and sexual diversity.

Established in 1994 by theologians and activists, inspired by the U.S.-based Catholics for Choice, the organization now operates in 10 Latin American nations. It criticizes the marginalization of women in religious circles and calls for a feminist reinterpretation of holy texts.

Maribel Luna, another activist, emphasizes the importance of autonomy and questioning church hierarchy, allowing Catholics to freely make personal life choices. This perspective is significant in Mexico, where conservative groups, often dressed in light blue, actively oppose abortion rights.

The local Catholic leadership, including Archbishop Carlos Aguiar Retes of Mexico City, often aligns with anti-abortion stances. Religious groups are known for praying outside abortion clinics, leveraging Catholic symbols to emphasize their stance.

Meanwhile, groups like the Mexican branch of 40 Days for Life pray for divine intervention to protect lives, reflecting a contrasting viewpoint.

Catholics for the Right to Decide addresses these complex issues through a spiritual support group. This team, comprising theologians and clergy from various denominations, offers guidance to women grappling with the conflict between their faith and abortion decisions.

The Rev. Rebeca Montemayor, a Baptist pastor involved in the group, mentions a guide they created, rooted in biblical teachings but emphasizing freedom. Women seek their help through various means, often burdened with guilt, even years after an abortion.

Rev. Julián Cruzalta, a founding member, speaks of women who have carried this guilt for decades, struggling to find peace. The group maintains confidentiality but shares insights to refine their approach and understand the societal context.

Many women who reach out are plagued with remorse and existential questions about sin and damnation. The healing process involves sessions of self-forgiveness, reinterpreting religious texts, and personal reflections to understand past decisions.

Beyond this spiritual support, Catholics for the Right to Decide engages in educational initiatives, including university lectures and training for medical professionals. They also produce an animated series titled “Catolicadas,” addressing religious themes.

Feedback from the community is heartening. Ramírez recalls instances where individuals, including those from the LGBTQ+ community and women who have had abortions, found solace and acceptance through their work.

Montemayor emphasizes their goal of fostering understanding across different faiths, advocating for the freedom to embrace one’s faith without judgment.

This coverage of religious matters is part of Big Big News, supported by The Conversation US and Lilly Endowment Inc., with the AP holding sole editorial responsibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Catholic activism Mexico

More about Catholic activism Mexico

• Catholics for the Right to Decide
• Mexico’s Abortion Rights Movement
• LGBTQ+ Rights and Catholicism
• Theological Reinterpretation and Feminism
• Spiritual Support and Abortion
• Educational Initiatives in Religious Contexts
• Progressive Catholicism in Latin America