Ten days before the 2016 election, I joined Cecile Richards and other women’s group leaders in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, campaigning for Hillary Clinton. A large, enthusiastic crowd awaited in the town square, but Hillary’s arrival was delayed.
This delay was due to FBI Director James Comey’s letter reopening the investigation into Hillary’s emails, creating significant election uncertainty. Hillary and her advisors were strategizing on the plane.
Backstage, the atmosphere was tense, except for Cecile. Maintaining her composure, she interacted with volunteers, exhibiting unwavering optimism and using the situation to rally support for healthcare access and individual liberties.
Cecile’s rally speech, filled with impromptu humor, received a standing ovation. Afterwards, at a local bar, she spearheaded the response to the email controversy. She was a beloved leader and an effective strategist, inspiring action on causes she championed. Cecile, who passed away Monday at 67 after battling brain cancer, was deeply loved.
My initial awareness of Cecile Richards stemmed from her mother. In my first election, I voted for Ann Richards for Texas governor. Decades later, I met Cecile, then Planned Parenthood president, after becoming president of NARAL Pro-Choice America (now Reproductive Freedom for All). Cecile welcomed me, mentoring me and introducing me to a network of women dedicated to abortion rights.
Cecile’s background included union organizing, working in Nancy Pelosi’s office, and leading America Votes. Many would have advised against her taking the Planned Parenthood position, considering it a step down for a woman of her caliber.
Cecile remained steadfast. She led with passion and conviction. Her warnings about the future of abortion care, initially dismissed, proved prescient as attacks on reproductive healthcare intensified during Obama’s second term. She skillfully transformed challenges into opportunities. When the Susan G. Komen foundation withdrew funding, Cecile’s fundraising efforts boosted Planned Parenthood’s profile and resources. While I cared for my newborn twins, Cecile, a mother of twins herself, testified before Congress, defending Planned Parenthood against politically motivated accusations and manipulated videos. Her twelve-hour testimony made her a hero, demonstrating unwavering dedication to patient care.
Cecile was complex. We collaborated but also disagreed. She was a skilled strategist, but always guided by her principles. Following the Dobbs decision, many felt discouraged, but Cecile remained committed, providing medical information and urging continued support and action. Even as her health declined, she relentlessly advocated for increased funding and political engagement. She understood the stakes and fought until the end.
Cecile Richards leaves behind a legacy of courageous service and serves as an inspiration for future generations.