Planned Parenthood Federation of America President Cecile Richards Statement on Anniversary of Roe v. Wade
For Immediate Release: Jan. 30, 2014
Thirty-seven years ago today, the Roe v. Wade decision solidified the right to choose for American women.
Today, as we celebrate and reflect on the landmark ruling, we are reminded that deciding whether and when to become a parent is one of the most personal and important choices we make.
“However, a women’s right to make personal health care decisions is under continuous assault by anti-choice organizations and individuals who use harassment and intimidation tactics in their attempt to deter women from seeking health care and doctors from providing it. Just this past year, we mourned the loss of Dr. George Tiller who was killed while he was serving as an usher in his church. In addition to harassment and intimidation tactics, anti-choice elected officials in state legislatures across the country frequently seek to erect barriers to prevent women from receiving timely, affordable care, including onerous measures like biased counseling, mandatory waiting periods and targeted restrictions on abortion providers.
“As we have for more than 90 years, Planned Parenthood remains steadfastly committed to both fighting efforts to undermine women’s health and providing a wide range of lifesaving preventive services like cancer screenings, contraception counseling, and abortion when it is the medical choice of the woman and those she trusts.”
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Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable health care for women, men, and young people, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With more than 700 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect and without judgment. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable health information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives.