As state legislators return to their respective state houses across the nation, it’s essential for lawmakers to take some time during the current session to prepare for the upcoming Dobbs v. Jackson ruling, says Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch.
Fitch has become the face of the historic case that was argued before the U.S. Supreme Court on Dec. 1, 2021. She shared about the magnitude of the case with TAB Media Group’s Jennifer Davis Rash in a Jan. 10, 2022, Special Report interview.
“We need to take a hard look at what’s in existence and possibly what needs to be filed (in regard to state laws),” Fitch said. “We need to prepare for how this (case) changes the tapestry of our country. … It will be a different dialogue in every state. It’s a rule of law question.”
‘Rising to the occasion’
The people in every state are prepared to do their jobs, she said. “Everyone is rising to the occasion to support these women and children … the miracles now being born. … (It’s about) empowering women and protecting and promoting life.”
The prayer support and wide-ranging networks have been a major part of the effort in both preparing to argue the case and now in what Fitch calls Phase 2 — what to do going forward, she said.
“We have such great partnerships, and the opportunities to talk about the significance of this case and what it means from a faith-based perspective … is just incredible. I don’t think you could do this type of case without all the support,” she said.
“It’s so key to have these conversations, a true dialogue, about empowering women and protecting the sanctity of life … how they go hand in hand … and how so much has changed in the 50 years (since the Roe ruling).”
Along with preparing for what happens following the ruling and thinking about how to work together no matter what is decided, Fitch urges people of faith to continue praying during this time, especially for the justices as they go through the case.
“Faith has always driven me in everything that I’ve done,” she said. “You can’t do these jobs if you don’t have priorities, faith and friends. … You have to rely on your faith (for direction).”
