Planned Parenthood Statement: "We stand with you. We are listening to you. We are here for you."

Washington, DC --  Planned Parenthood Federation of America released the below statement following a week of tragic murders and racially based violence:

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

“The horrific shootings that took the lives of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile this week, and the violence that took the lives of five law enforcement officers in Dallas, are beyond comprehension. We are heartbroken for the families of those killed, and for all people who live under the shadow of our country’s systemic and institutional racism and violence. We must acknowledge that the movement for Black lives does not call for violence, but an end to it. Last night’s shooting in Dallas did not represent the peaceful protest that was tragically interrupted.
 

“Planned Parenthood is committed to civil rights, social justice, and reproductive rights for all.  We stand with reproductive justice partners who have long proclaimed that women must be able to decide not only if and when to have a baby and the conditions of giving birth — but also that they must be able to parent their children in safe environments and healthy communities without fear of violence from individuals or the government. To our colleagues and patients of color, to those living in and connected with communities of color, to everyone invested in health equity and racial and reproductive justice:  We stand with you.  We are listening to you.  We are here for you.
 

“We will continue to fight for a country in which people of color are truly cared for and in which their lives, families, and communities are better and healthier and can live free of violence.”

###

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.