Rep. Elijah Cummings Will Be Remembered for His Dedication to Reproductive Health and Rights
For Immediate Release: Oct. 17, 2019
Congressman was a critical leader on House Oversight Committee against attacks on access to abortion and other sexual and reproductive health care
WASHINGTON — Planned Parenthood Federation of America issued the following statement on the passing of Congressman Elijah Cummings:
Statement from Alexis McGill Johnson, Acting President and CEO, Planned Parenthood Federation of America:
“We mourn the loss of Congressman Cummings, a dedicated advocate, a civil rights leader, and a true champion for sexual and reproductive health care. In fighting back against the many attacks on our health and rights, he consistently elevated patient voices and experiences and made sure those impacted — both in Baltimore and across the nation — were heard. At a time when anti-abortion politicans are doing everything they can to take away access to care, Congressman Cummings was steadfast in his commitment to access to sexual and reproductive health care, no matter what. Congressman Cummings’ moral clarity and courage cannot be replaced. We offer our condolences to his family, his staff, and loved ones. Rest in power.”
Statement from Karen J. Nelson, President and CEO, Planned Parenthood of Maryland:
“We are devastated by the loss of a true public servant and champion for women’s health. Congressman Cummings has been a long-standing Planned Parenthood supporter and advocate and has never backed down from a fight for women’s rights. Congressman Cummings worked for social justice for Baltimore and the State of Maryland for the entirety of his career and dedicated his life to uplifting and empowering the people he was sworn to represent. In 2016, we presented him with Planned Parenthood of Maryland’s highest honor, the Betty Tyler Award. We were proud to celebrate Congressman Cummings for demonstrating outstanding leadership in protecting and advancing reproductive rights in Maryland. We send our condolences to his family, loved ones, and colleagues. He will truly be missed here in Baltimore and throughout the entire state.”
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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 600 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.