Global Health and Human Rights Champions in House Introduce Support UNFPA Funding Act
For Immediate Release: June 16, 2021
WASHINGTON — Today, Reps. Houlahan (D-PA-6), Meeks (D-NY-5), Speier (D-CA-14), DeGette (D-CO-1), Frankel (D-FL-21), Maloney (D-NY-12) — along with 120 other original cosponsors — introduced the Support UNFPA Funding Act in the U.S. House. This legislation would authorize funding and declare support for the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and its critical reproductive and maternal health work around the world.
Statement from Jacqueline Ayers, vice president of government relations & public policy, Planned Parenthood Federation of America:
“Planned Parenthood Federation of America applauds Rep. Chrissy Houlahan and her colleagues for introducing this important legislation and working to advance sexual and reproductive health and rights across the globe. We have also been pleased to see the Biden-Harris administration take concrete steps to rebuild their partnership with and restore funding for UNFPA, after the U.S. actively withheld funding from UNFPA for the past four years. UNFPA is working to end preventable maternal deaths, gender based-violence, and the unmet need for contraceptives, and to promote a human-rights based approach to family planning — work that has never been more important. As we continue to rebuild our partnerships across the globe, it is critical we support UNFPA’s mission so all people can secure reproductive freedom.”
UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, working to expand access to contraceptives; help people deliver healthy babies and survive delivery; reduce the incidence of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections; help curb the frequency of child marriage; reduce harmful practices such as female genital mutilation, and address violence against women, and more. UNFPA also plays a leading role in responding to reproductive health needs in humanitarian crises and conflict areas, and has been providing personal protective equipment and supporting health systems around the world during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ultimately, UNFPA works to ensure people have the ability to make free and informed decisions about their reproductive lives, as a way to improve individual well-being, and transform communities.
Planned Parenthood Federation of America is proud to join 98 diverse organizations to endorse the Support UNFPA Funding Act and calls on Congress to support UNFPA’s critical mission.
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Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable sexual and reproductive health care for all people, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With more than 600 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect, and without judgment, striving to create equitable access to health care. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable education and information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives. Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that supports the independently incorporated Planned Parenthood affiliates operating health centers across the U.S.
For 50 years, Planned Parenthood Global has supported access to sexual and reproductive health care and advocated for reproductive rights around the world. In partnership with nearly 100 organizations across nine focus countries in Africa and Latin America, we advance the health and rights of young people, women and families, with an emphasis on the most vulnerable and underserved. Each year, our partners provide sexual and reproductive health information and services to nearly 2 million people. Our unique sustainability model sets us apart, as we empower partners to stand on their own. We help grassroots organizations develop solid reproductive health programs, identify other sources of funding, build their communications and advocacy skills, and develop strategic plans. Planned Parenthood Global is the international arm of Planned Parenthood Federation of America.