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Cecile Richards, Former Planned Parenthood President, Dead at 67

Olivia Messer

Olivia Messer

— 1 min read
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Cecile Richards smiling at the dais during a speech at the DNC, with a blue background
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - AUGUST 21: Former President of Planned Parenthood Cecile Richards speaks on stage during the third day of the Democratic National Convention at the United Center on August 21, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. Delegates, politicians, and Democratic Party supporters are in Chicago for the convention, concluding with current Vice President Kamala Harris accepting her party's presidential nomination. The DNC takes place from August 19-22. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) Credit: Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

Cecile Richards, the eldest daughter of Texas Gov. Ann Richards, died on Monday at the age of 67, according to a statement from her family. Richards, a lifelong feminist activist and advocate for reproductive rights, had an aggressive form of brain cancer. She remained active in Democratic politics throughout her diagnosis.

“This morning our beloved Cecile passed away at home, surrounded by her family and her ever-loyal dog, Ollie. Our hearts are broken today but no words can do justice to the joy she brought to our lives,” her family wrote on Monday.

“After receiving the incredibly tough diagnosis of glioblastoma,” her family continued, “Cecile proceeded to launch a new organization dedicated to chronicling the personal impact of abortion bans, accept the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the French Legion of Honor, bring the house down with her speech in support of Kamala Harris at the 2024 Democratic National Convention,” and celebrate many family milestones. The 19th first broke the news of Richards’ death on Monday. As Texas Tribune reported, Richards founded the Texas Freedom Network, a grassroots social justice organization. She was widely known for reshaping Planned Parenthood into a political force as well as a health care provider.

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