Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts Stands with BC Students for Sexual Health
For Immediate Release: Jan. 30, 2014
Says BC administration is irresponsible for restricting sexual health care access
BOSTON— Martha (Marty) Walz, Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts (PPLM) President and Chief Executive Officer, issued the following statement today in support of Boston College Students for Sexual Health (BCSSH):
“As the President of the state’s leading sexual and reproductive health care provider and advocate, and the aunt of two Boston College students, I could not be more proud of BC Students for Sexual Health. Since 2009, these courageous student organizers have stepped up to meet the health care needs of their peers by providing condoms and sexual health information from their dorm rooms. I am extremely disappointed that Boston College administrators are now threatening to impose disciplinary action against these students. Universities, healthcare providers, public health advocates, and young people should be partnering together to keep our communities healthy.
“Birth control is basic health care, no matter where you work or go to school. Access to condoms and sexual health information is necessary for young people to protect themselves against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and unintended pregnancy. And with STD rates rising among people under age 25, empowering young women and men to make healthy decisions should be a top priority for all of us.
“BCSSH is part of a growing movement among young people to stand up in support of sexual and reproductive health, sex education, and access to preventive care. Planned Parenthood is proud of its alliance with BCSSH that dates back to its founding; the group is an essential member of our campus organizing program, which includes eight chapters across Massachusetts. We are helping to create the next generation of leaders and activists in support of affordable and accessible health care for women and men.
“Impeding students’ access to the tools and information they need to make smart, healthy decisions is irresponsible and short-sighted on the part of the Boston College administration.”
###
Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts is the largest freestanding reproductive health care provider in the state. For over 80 years PPLM has protected and promoted sexual and reproductive health and freedom of choice through clinical services, education and advocacy. For more information, visit www.pplm.org.
Source
Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts
Contact
Melissa Mills-Dick
Communications Manager
(617) 515-0531
Published
March 28, 2013