ACLU Statement on the Passing of Cecile Richards

January 20, 2025 11:00 am

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NEW YORK – The American Civil Liberties Union mourns the loss of Cecile Richards, a one-in-a-generation leader whose passion, resilience, and vision transformed the landscape of women’s rights and reproductive freedom. In celebration of her life, Anthony D. Romero, executive director of the ACLU, shared the following statement:

“Cecile Richards was a once-in-a-generation leader and a true American hero and patriot. To millions of Americans, she was a rebel with a cause – the best of those creating ‘good trouble.’ For those of us fighting for reproductive rights, Cecile Richards was our North Star. Cecile transformed the fight for reproductive freedom and women’s rights, building Planned Parenthood into a powerhouse and defending autonomy and dignity with courage and clarity.

“The ACLU and Planned Parenthood have long been allies, but Cecile was more than a partner — she was a friend, a confidante, and an inspiration. Her leadership was marked by grace and determination, never more evident than during the 2015 Senate hearings to defund Planned Parenthood. Cecile stood firm, speaking truth to power and protecting the rights of millions.

“Cecile’s life offers countless examples of resilience, courage and commitment. In 2015 Republican leaders were intent on defunding Planned Parenthood and would likely have accomplished that goal had Cecile Richards not been at the helm at the organization. During those hearings, Cecile exhibited poise, strength, and determination to face down the attacks. With every fiber of her body and spirit, Cecile essentially said, ‘Not on my watch.’ The Cecile Richards our country came to admire, and follow, would invariably face any adversity with brilliance and determination. Cecile faced her battle with cancer with the same level of grit and determination that she showed in fighting off efforts to defund Planned Parenthood.

“Cecile’s legacy is one of vision, action, and love. We honor her by recommitting to the work she so passionately pursued, inspired by her strength and unwavering commitment. The death of Cecile Richards on the same day that Donald Trump takes the oath of office underscores the importance of the work ahead. Today, we grieve. Tomorrow, we get back to work in her name and will do our best to make her proud.”