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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF CECILE RICHARDS
WHEREAS, Cecile Richards was a passionate advocate for reproductive rights and social justice, dedicating her career to expanding access to healthcare and championing women's rights; and
WHEREAS, born on July 15, 1957, in Waco, Texas, she was the daughter of former Texas Governor Ann Richards and a lifelong leader in progressive activism, working tirelessly to advance equity and healthcare accessibility; and
WHEREAS, Cecile Richards served as the President of Planned Parenthood Federation of America from 2006 to 2018, during which she strengthened the organization’s advocacy efforts and expanded its healthcare services to millions across the country; and
WHEREAS, under her leadership, Planned Parenthood grew to nearly 600 health centers nationwide, solidifying its role as the nation’s leading provider of affordable reproductive healthcare and education, ensuring access to services such as cancer screenings, contraception, STI testing, and family planning; and
WHEREAS, Richards played a pivotal role in supporting the Affordable Care Act (ACA), helping secure provisions that expanded birth control access and preventive care for over 64 million women, reinforcing the fundamental right to reproductive healthcare; and
WHEREAS, under her leadership, Planned Parenthood navigated legislative challenges while continuing to provide essential reproductive health services, education, and advocacy, impacting countless lives; and
WHEREAS, after stepping down from Planned Parenthood, Cecile Richards co-founded Supermajority, a women’s activism organization focused on civic engagement, further amplifying her commitment to equality and social change; and
WHEREAS, in recognition of her lifetime of advocacy, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden in November 2024 for her unwavering commitment to healthcare access and women’s rights; and
WHEREAS, Cecile Richards bravely battled glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, and passed away at her home in New York City on January 20, 2025, at the age of 67, leaving behind a legacy of courage, activism, and leadership; and
WHEREAS, her dedication to justice and healthcare equity will continue to inspire generations of activists, policymakers, and healthcare providers;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners mourns the passing of Cecile Richards and celebrates her remarkable contributions to reproductive rights, healthcare advocacy, and social justice; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to her family and loved ones as a token of our deepest sympathy and gratitude for her lifetime of service.
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