Planned Parenthood Statement on the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Holiday

NEW YORK ― Planned Parenthood Federation of America released the following statement honoring the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his commitment to ensuring equal access to health care for all people—regardless of who they are or where they live.

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

“Today, as we keep our eyes on the goal of equality for all people, Planned Parenthood stands with the many people and organizations across the country collectively honoring the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. Dr. King believed that access to health care was a fundamental right for all people, and Planned Parenthood agrees wholeheartedly. Particularly at a time when our fundamental rights to justice and equity are under attack, we cannot ignore that health care inequity is linked to lack of access, poverty, racism, sexism, and discrimination in all of its forms. These structural inequities can only be changed through collective action.

“That’s why we believe in the power of working with our partners in community to continue to break down these barriers—to continue to transform our world from one divided by disparities to one united by health equity, both here and around the globe. In the spirit of Dr. King, we’ve made progress but know there is still much work to be done. Today and every day, we honor Dr. King’s legacy by providing health care to all people regardless of race, class, country of origin, or gender—and by standing with our partners to fight for social justice and equity in all its forms."

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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.