Cecile Richards, born on July 15, 1957, in Waco, Texas, was a prominent American activist renowned for her unwavering commitment to reproductive rights and social justice. She was the daughter of Ann Richards, the former governor of Texas, and David Richards, a civil rights attorney. Raised in a politically active household, Cecile was immersed in advocacy from a young age.
After earning a Bachelor of Arts in history from Brown University in 1980, Richards embarked on a career as a labor organizer, championing the rights of workers across various states. She played pivotal roles in union campaigns for garment workers, nursing home employees, and janitors, demonstrating her dedication to labor rights and social equity.
In 1995, Richards founded the Texas Freedom Network, aiming to counter the influence of the religious right in state politics. Her leadership in this organization underscored her commitment to progressive values and the separation of church and state. She later served as deputy chief of staff for U.S. Representative Nancy Pelosi and was the founding president of America Votes, an organization dedicated to coordinating and promoting progressive issues.
Richards' most notable role was as the president of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, a position she held from 2006 to 2018. During her tenure, she became a leading voice in defending reproductive rights, especially in the face of political challenges and controversies surrounding abortion services. Her leadership was instrumental in navigating the organization through numerous legislative and public relations battles, solidifying her status as a formidable advocate for women's health.
In April 2019, Richards co-founded Supermajority, alongside activists Alicia Garza and Ai-jen Poo. This political action group was established to educate and train women to further a women's political agenda, focusing on issues such as voting rights, gun control, paid family leave, and equal pay. Supermajority aimed to harness the power of women voters and activists to influence policy and elections.
In mid-2023, Richards was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Despite her illness, she continued to be a symbol of resilience and dedication to her causes. On November 20, 2024, President Joe Biden awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom, recognizing her lifelong contributions to social justice and women's rights. Cecile Richards passed away on January 20, 2025, at the age of 67, leaving behind a profound legacy in activism and advocacy.
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