Catholics in Alliance released the following statement today in response to President Obama naming a new White House Task Force aimed at reducing abortions.

Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good commends President Obama for appointing a White House task force within the Domestic Policy Council to find common ground solutions that will help reduce abortions. This move marks a milestone in helping to end our nation’s divisive abortion culture wars so that we can work to eliminate the root causes of why women often feel forced to make this tragic choice.

Comprehensive efforts to reduce abortions are a cause for hope that the pro-life and pro-choice communities should embrace. After more than three decades of political paralysis and legal gridlock, the time has come to unite around policies that research tells us help women and families choose life. The connection between poverty, lack of health care and abortion rates is clear. It is encouraging to see growing momentum for addressing these complex socioeconomic realities.

The Pregnant Women Support Act is an example of effective legislation that provides resources for pregnant and parenting women. Cardinal Justin Rigali, chair of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Pro-Life Committee, recently wrote to all U.S. representatives urging them to co-sponsor the bill introduced in the House by Rep. Lincoln Davis on April 22. Cardinal Rigali described the legislation as providing “authentic common ground, an approach that people can embrace regardless of their position on other issues.”

A post-election poll conducted by Public Religion Research found that most voters — including 81% of Catholics and 86% of white evangelicals — believe elected officials should work across party lines to increase economic support for vulnerable women, expand adoption opportunities and prevent unintended pregnancies.

The creation of a White House Task Force sends a strong signal that this Administration has a serious commitment to addressing this urgent moral and political challenge.