Reproductive Equity Now: Julie Rikelman Embodies the Values We Need in Every Federal Court Appointment

Rikelman represented the Mississippi abortion clinic in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health

BOSTON (June 20, 2023) – Reproductive Equity Now today celebrated Julie Rikelman’s confirmation to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit, which covers Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Puerto Rico, and Rhode Island. Rikelman represented the Mississippi abortion clinic in the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health case before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Reproductive Equity Now President Rebecca Hart Holder released the following statement today applauding Rikelman’s confirmation:

“Julie Rikelman embodies the values we need in every federal court appointment: a deep commitment to justice and to ensuring every person the freedom to make dignified decisions about their lives and futures.

“As we see federal court judges across the country evade the law, justice, and truth, Julie Rikelman’s confirmation today will begin the long process to restore the courts’ legitimacy and regain the people’s trust in our judicial system.

"She is a fierce advocate for equal opportunity, and will bring her strong sense of ethics to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. We’re grateful to have a champion for reproductive freedom on the federal bench.”

Since 2011, Rikelman has worked as the United States Litigation Director for the Center for Reproductive Rights. Throughout her career, she has litigated numerous reproductive rights cases, including those involving abortion bans, clinic closing laws, invasive ultrasound laws, medication abortion access, and more. 

Reproductive Equity Now is a Massachusetts-based grassroots organization focused on passing policies to promote reproductive health equity.

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