President Joe Biden presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Cecile Richards, a longtime abortion rights activist and former president of Planned Parenthood, during a private ceremony on Wednesday. Biden praised Richards for her leadership in advancing reproductive rights, civil rights, and voter mobilization, calling her a “leader of utmost character.”
Richards led Planned Parenthood for 12 years, expanding access to affordable reproductive healthcare and solidifying abortion rights as a core Democratic platform. After stepping down in 2018, she co-founded Supermajority, a progressive group advocating for gender equity, and co-chairs the super PAC American Bridge 21st Century.
Diagnosed in 2023 with glioblastoma, a rare brain tumor, Richards shares a connection with Biden, whose son Beau succumbed to the disease in 2015. Announcing the award, Biden highlighted Richards’ enduring legacy and her dedication to justice and equality.
Richards is the daughter of Ann Richards, the first female governor of Texas. She joins previous Medal of Freedom recipients such as gymnast Simone Biles, actor Michelle Yeoh, and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
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