Project 50 sends love, support and gratitude to Cecile Richards
Yesterday, January 28th, New York Magazine’s The Cut published an article in which long-time reproductive rights leader Cecile Richards disclosed that she has brain cancer. The article, authored by Irin Carmon, touches on a few of the many ways Cecile has influenced the reproductive rights movement, wearing many hats along the way.
Cecile’s news is heartbreaking for all of us at Project 50, both because of Cecile’s visionary leadership, but equally because she has inspired and encouraged so many of us, whether at a suburban house party or testifying before Congress.
Cecile has served as an advisor to me and Project 50 from the beginning. But her impact began many years earlier, as so many of us learned from the crack team of Planned Parenthood political strategists Cecile recruited and nurtured.
Project 50’s organizing principle is that every state needs the 24/7 leadership of its own reproductive rights political organization. Cecile has always espoused the value of engaging and organizing people in their home communities, particularly young people and people of color.
Although many thousands of people have been energized by Cecile in sold-out gala ballrooms, the moments that are inseparable from her leadership are when we watch Cecile sitting with groups of high school students or Planned Parenthood health center staff, creating space for them to give voice to their dreams and encouraging them to take action.
Cecile isn’t done. In yesterday’s article, she describes the work she is doing now to connect pregnant people to abortion healthcare through the chatbot Charley.
Cecile believes in the future and every new generation that will chart the path forward. At Project 50 we are grateful beyond measure for Cecile’s example - her values, her vision, and her inclusive, respectful, honest leadership. We will continue to turn to her for advice and encouragement.
All of us at Project 50 send Cecile our love, support and gratitude.
Bryan Howard
Project 50 Executive Director, Bryan Howard and reproductive rights leader, Cecile Richards
Paid for by Project 50 (project50.net) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee.