NCJW Calls on Lawmakers to Fund Stem Cell Research
December 7, 2004, New York, NY -- The Board of Directors of the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) issued the following statement regarding the Administration's current policy on stem cell research:
"The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is dismayed that the Bush Administration continues to restrict embryonic stem cell research, despite overwhelming evidence of its potential benefits to humanity. The administration policy, which sets limits on federal funding for this research, has stymied access to new cell lines, increased the cost of stem cell research, and prevented the US from being an international leader in this field.
"Embryonic stem cell research holds the potential for major medical advances in treating and preventing Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, spinal cord injuries, strokes, burns, heart disease, diabetes, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, among other diseases and disabilities. Yet extremists have derailed this vital research with divisive rhetoric and misinformation. While they claim their opposition is based on a respect for human life, they overlook the countless lives that could be extended, improved, or saved by this research. In addition, it is disingenuous for opponents to portray such research as the destruction of life, because it utilizes existing embryos that would otherwise be discarded.
"NCJW supports full federal funding for embryonic stem cell research unhindered by restrictions on the use of stem cell lines. We are pleased that there is strong bipartisan support for stem cell research, including among some members of Congress who oppose abortion rights. Wide public support exists as evidenced by the passage of the recent ballot initiative in California to invest public funds in this important research.
"NCJW supports new legislation that would significantly enhance federal support for embryonic stem cell research while upholding ethical standards. It is unconscionable to allow politics to obstruct potentially life-saving medical advances."
NCJW is a volunteer organization, inspired by Jewish values, that works to improve the quality of life for women, children, and families and to ensure individual rights and freedoms for all through its network of 90,000 members, supporters, and volunteers nationwide.
Contact:
Becky Dansky
202 296 2588; becky@ncjwdc.org