Taking a break from working on my upcoming book, I’ve been reflecting on tomorrow’s elections and what feels most at stake. While I worry deeply about the state of democracy, the rule of law, and other values we once took for granted, one issue ties all of this together: how we view the rights of women.
Women’s rights are not merely one issue among many; they are the foundation that upholds democracy, the rule of law, and justice. When all is said and done, I believe we have no true democracy, no rule of law, and no genuine justice without prioritizing the rights, dignity, and autonomy of women in America. This focus defines our true stance on everything else and reveals our commitment to justice, compassion, and equality.
Those who seek to take away women’s rights also aim to take away the rights of others, and it is a direct attack on the foundational principles of democracy, freedom, and dignity that bind us all. That is why I believe there is no democracy, no rule of law, no enduring rights for anyone, without equality for all women.
Jewish values offer a meaningful framework for guiding our actions, especially as voters. As we cast our ballots, these principles remind us that how we view and treat women is a statement of who we are and what we genuinely stand for. In today’s times, I believe the best barometer of the values men uphold is directly related to our views and actions toward women.
To deny rights and dignity to women while expecting them for ourselves is a direct contradiction of Jewish values. I have always believed that men must be part of the solution—not part of the problem or, worse, silent. When men stay silent, we become complicit in undermining not only women’s rights but our shared principles of justice and equality.
Even here in New York, where we may not face the same immediate threats to women’s rights as those in states like Texas, Florida, Mississippi, Alabama, and Oklahoma, we still have work to do to ensure women’s rights are fully protected. Silence and standing on the sidelines cannot be an option—especially for men. Jewish values remind us that justice is universal and indivisible, calling us to advocate not only for the rights of those close to us but also for those across the nation facing unjust restrictions on their autonomy, healthcare, and safety.
- Pursuing Justice and Equality (Tzedek v’Shivyon) – Jewish tradition emphasizes justice for all, calling on us to support the fair treatment of every individual. Tzedek, tzedek tirdof (“Justice, justice shall you pursue”) reminds us that justice is universal. Voting for policies that ensure fairness, dignity, and opportunity for everyone—particularly for women—is a way to uphold this value. Supporting gender equality and women’s rights reflects a commitment to creating a just society where every person’s rights and dignity are protected equally.
- Human Dignity and Autonomy (Kavod HaBriyot) – Jewish teachings call us to honor the dignity of each person. Upholding women’s rights, including reproductive rights, workplace equality, and freedom from harassment, is essential to preserving this dignity. When men support policies that allow women autonomy over their own bodies and lives, we align with our duty to uplift each person’s inherent worth. Silence on these issues allows injustice to persist, contradicting our responsibility to defend dignity for all.
- Protection of Health and Life (Pikuach Nefesh) – The principle of pikuach nefesh prioritizes the protection of life and well-being. This value calls us to support policies that ensure women’s access to vital health services, including reproductive healthcare and maternal health. Men’s voices in this conversation are critical, as our collective advocacy for women’s health reflects our commitment to preserving life and promoting well-being.
- Repairing the World for Future Generations (Tikkun Olam) – The concept of tikkun olam, or “repairing the world,” urges us to build a society that is supportive, inclusive, and equitable for all. Men’s role in advocating for women’s rights—from equal pay to family support policies—strengthens our communities and helps create a fairer, safer world for the next generation. Our values are evident when we actively champion policies that foster opportunity and justice for all people.
- Compassion and Kindness (Chesed v’Rachamim) – Jewish values remind us to act with compassion and kindness. Voting for policies that uplift and protect women’s rights—addressing issues like gender-based violence, discrimination, and maternal health—is a commitment to a compassionate society. True kindness means actively standing up for the dignity, rights, and well-being of others, not remaining silent.
By voting in alignment with these values, we contribute to a society rooted in justice, dignity, health, and compassion. Supporting leaders and policies that uplift women’s rights is not only a fulfillment of Jewish values but also a testament to who we are as individuals. Men’s voices are essential in shaping a society that truly reflects a commitment to equality and respect for all, and I believe that our views and actions toward women are the most revealing indicator of the values we uphold.
Supporting leaders and policies that safeguard women’s rights not only upholds our values but also stands as a powerful expression of solidarity with those who continue to face oppression and restriction across the country. For, in truth, an attack on women’s rights is an attack on everyone’s rights—and on the very ideals of freedom and dignity that form the foundation of our society. Without equality for all women, there can be no true democracy, no rule of law, and no secure rights for anyone.
As we cast our votes tomorrow, let us remember that the way we treat women’s rights reflects the health of our society as a whole. Voting for equality and dignity is voting for a just and secure future for everyone.
Jerry: I too agree that women’s rights are an important element of our democratic society and must be supported to the fullest extent.