In Memoriam: Cecile Richards, a Fierce and Loving Advocate for Women’s Rights
Cecile Richards, a pioneer in reproductive rights and former president of Planned Parenthood, passed away on January 20th. She leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of advocacy and leadership.
As the daughter of Ann Richards, the first female governor of Texas, and David Richards, a civil rights lawyer, Cecile was raised in a family dedicated to social justice.
Cecile began her career in the labor movement, organizing service workers and fighting for their rights.
In 1993, she joined Planned Parenthood as its president, a position she held for more than a decade.
During her tenure, she expanded access to birth control and reproductive care, and fought tirelessly against abortion restrictions.
She also transformed Planned Parenthood into a political force, advocating for women’s rights on the national stage and in private meetings at the White House.
After leaving Planned Parenthood, Cecile co-founded Supermajority, a women’s political action group, and Abortion in America, an organization dedicated to supporting access to abortion.
Cecile was a tireless advocate for women’s rights, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Even in her final days, as she battled a terminal illness, Cecile remained focused on the fight for reproductive freedom.
She was a true champion of women’s rights, and her loss is a devastating blow to the movement.
But her spirit and her legacy will continue to inspire us to fight for a more just and equitable world for all.
Here’s to the work ahead.