Tuesday, November 16, 2010

We Will Fight for Women

Now that we’ve had some time to reflect on the 2010 election, many of us are wondering where women’s health stands. First off, there were some bright spots in the 2010 election. For example, the defeat of Amendment 62 in Colorado, which, if enacted, would have had dramatic consequences for state anti-choice activity nationwide. Amendment 62, which was voted down, would have extended legal and constitutional rights to fertilized eggs, therefore outlawing abortion and even some forms of contraception. This scary anti-choice ballot initiative was defeated by a 3:1 margin.

There were lots of mixed feelings in the days following the election, some good, some disappointing, but one thing is very clear. Despite the few bright spots, it is obvious that the House of Representatives is now in the hands of dangerous anti-choice politicians. Politicians who oppose women’s health and the right to reproductive health care including birth control. Politicians who want to outlaw abortion, even in cases of rape, incest, and harm to the health of the woman. Politicians who specifically want to defund Planned Parenthood, leaving low-income women without basic women’s health care.

Though the 2010 election was a referendum on the economy and government, the results are truly alarming when it comes to women’s health. We have a tough fight on our hands with anti-choice House leaders like John Boehner, who will only be egged on by Tea Party extreminists, and conservative pundits like Sarah Palin.

But make no mistake about it, Planned Parenthood is here for the communities we serve, no matter what, and we are going to stand our ground.  We will continue to deliver high-quality care and sex education to every community we serve. We've been here since 1924  and we will never stop caring for women or fighting for their rights.

Planned Parenthood supporters, it is time to get to work! We need your support to keep our doors open, to keep our communities healthy.

Please take a moment to sign the open letter to the members of Congress who want to gut women’s reproductive rights and health services.

And while you're on-line, be sure to sign up to get the latest advocacy updates from PPRSR.

Together, we will make ensure women now and for generations to come have access to reproductive health care and rights.

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