Cecile Richards was my friend, but before that, she was an inspiration. Her example taught so many of us what fierce, determined leadership looks like. Along with the entire Planned Parenthood family, I am heartbroken by her passing.

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Cecile devoted her life to organizing and mobilizing communities fighting for justice, for fairness, for freedom. For 12 years, she led Planned Parenthood Federation of America and Action Fund with the kind of unflinching courage and unshakeable dedication that changes the world.

She brought health care, education, and advocacy work to new heights. She led us through fights that transformed reproductive health and rights and made Planned Parenthood Action Fund the advocacy and political force that it remains to this day.

Our community is mourning. But I know, without a doubt, that Cecile would tell us the best way to honor her memory is to suit up -- preferably in pink -- link arms, and fight like hell for Planned Parenthood health center patients across the country.

Cecile is still an inspiration. I hope you'll remember her dedication to reproductive freedom. I hope the memory of her undaunted grace, no matter what she faced, gives you strength. And I hope you'll remember what she always said: Supporters like you are the heart and soul of this organization -- and together, we are unstoppable.

With love and solace,

Alexis McGill Johnson, President & CEO
Planned Parenthood Federation of America

P.S. Cecile never ever stopped trying to lift the voices of women and people marginalized by racism and discrimination. One of her last projects, Abortion in America, is a storytelling project that creates space for people to share their experiences. If you’re feeling overwhelmed today, try reading a few of these stories or sharing your own.
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