News Release: Statement on Release of Jack Kevorkian

Michigan Catholic Conference President and Chief Executive Officer Sister Monica Kostielney, R.S.M., made the following statement today regarding the June 1 prison release of Jack Kevorkian, who has spoken in recent weeks of his intention to advocate for the legalization of assisted suicide in Michigan:

“Any legislative effort to decriminalize assisted suicide in this state will face the same demise as the 1998 ballot issue that was overwhelmingly rejected by a three to one margin. Assisted suicide represents an affront to the dignity of the human person, a crime against life, and an attack on humanity—all of which must be repudiated by elected officials and people of good will who seek to protect life from its beginning to its natural end. Those suffering from terminal conditions deserve to be treated with dignity and respect through appropriate palliative care along with love and comfort from family, friends and competent medical personnel.”

Sr. Monica Kostielney, R.S.M.
President and Chief Executive Officer
Issued May 31, 2007

Michigan Catholic Conference is the official public policy voice of the Catholic Church in this state.

-- 30 --