Good afternoon Friend,

I hope you’re staying safe, healthy, and warm.

Happy Black History Month!

We’re incredibly happy to recognize the Black community’s history of reimagining what every aspect of our country can look like— frequently saving American democracy from itself. As we celebrate all that Black people, especially Black women, have done for our country, we must also address the racist systems that make it difficult to be a Black person in America. Now more than ever it’s important to acknowledge the ways that systemic racism continues to bleed into our society, starting with lack of statehood for DC residents — who are predominantly Black. Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington, DC and Planned Parenthood Advocates for DC, Maryland & NoVa have stood in solidarity with the DC Statehood movement and will continue to advocate for DC to become a state into the new year. Please join us in our commitment to uplift Black lives and voices by supporting DC Statehood.

Planned Parenthood Advocates for DC, Maryland & NoVa is hosting a teach-in on Monday, March 1 from 6 – 8 pm with partners Anise Jenkins of Stand Up for Democracy/Free DC and Barbara Helmick of DC Vote to dive into the historical ties between lack of statehood, racism and reproductive rights, as well as how you can get involved in the fight! Don’t miss it!

And next Thursday, February 25, don’t miss Planned Parenthood Action Fund’s “We Decided: Now What?” event. This panel discussion is the Black Organizing Program’s marquee virtual event to celebrate Black History Month 2021. During the event, PPAF will look back on the Black community's strength and power to move us toward even bigger wins; analyze the Biden administration’s first 30 days in office, and talk about what accountability looks like. They will boost reproductive health and rights champions to ensure their continued leadership and define bad actors as just that — people who aren't representing the people well enough to deserve their jobs —  to make sure our positions are at the forefront of policy decisions.

We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming events!

Planned Parenthood Advocates for DC, Maryland & NoVa

1225 4th St NE, Washington, D.C. 20002

www.harderwerise.org

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