Planned Parenthood Stands With Immigrant Communities & Condemns President’s Trump’s Executive Order

New York, NY — Planned Parenthood Federation of America condemns the executive order signed today to ramp up immigration enforcement activities and undermine safety within immigrant communities. The organization released the following statement, in response to President Trump’s executive order.

Statement from Cecile Richards, President of Planned Parenthood Federation of America:

“President Trump’s executive order signed today to erect walls to keep out immigrants, turn away those seeking asylum, and to prevent local governments from making decisions about serving the needs of everyone in their communities is an appalling attack on immigrants in this country and is designed to sow fear. The people affected are a vital part of the Planned Parenthood community: they are our patients, our volunteers, our activists, our supporters, our clinicians, and our staff.

“We know what happens when communities that already face barriers in accessing care are driven further into the shadows — they must forsake the care they need to preserve their own safety. We’ve seen it in Texas, my home state, where border militarization and an abundance of border checkpoints have made it nearly impossible for immigrants to access health care due to the high risk of detention and deportation. We’ve also seen it through our global work, how these policies have made it more difficult for communities to access the health care they need.

“At Planned Parenthood we believe that that health has no borders, and that the ability to live and thrive without fear and to access health care are basic human rights. Planned Parenthood health centers are proud to provide high-quality care to everyone regardless of country of origin, faith, immigrant and refugee status, or to those who may otherwise have nowhere else to turn for health care. And globally, we are proud to support partners across Africa and Latin America to advance health and rights in their own communities.

“This is a blatant attack on communities of color. This country was founded by immigrants and on the values of equality and safety for all. This cannot be what is means to live in America in 2017, and we are prepared to stand alongside our partners to fight back against hate and discrimination.”

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Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable health care for women, men, and young people, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With over 650 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect and without judgment. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable health information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives.