Author: Cecile Richards

Cecile Richards is president of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) and the Planned Parenthood Action Fund, PPFA's advocacy and political arm. Cecile writes about election issues as the president of the Planned Parenthood Action Fund. She is a leader in national progressive politics with more than 20 years of experience working on behalf of reproductive freedom and social justice. Prior to joining PPFA, Ms. Richards served as founder and president of America Votes, a coalition of more than 30 national organizations, including the Planned Parenthood Action Fund. America Votes was created to maximize voter registration, education, and mobilization among grassroots organizations. Directly before serving as president of America Votes, Ms. Richards worked as deputy chief of staff for Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi, where she played a key role in the Congress member's election as the first woman Democratic leader of the House of Representatives.

We All Deserve the Freedom to Control Our Bodies

Reproductive and bodily freedom is under attack like never before. Attacks on reproductive freedom and anti-trans legislation go hand in hand, as they are both about controlling which bodies are respected and who gets to make choices about their own lives. Decisions about our bodies, including abortion and gender transition, are deeply personal choices that should be made solely by the person seeking healthcare—free from political interference. 

(This essay is part of The Majority Rules project—an artful essay and op-ed series from Ms. and Supermajority Education Fund.)