FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

January 21, 2025 

Contact: Chandler Rollins 314-610-0896 

Statement from Dr. Jamila K. Taylor, President and CEO of the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, on the passing of Cecile Richards:  

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Cecile Richards, an absolute giant of our movement. Cecile’s leadership and brilliance were matched only by her kindness and the care that she brought to all her work. Throughout her life, she used her powerful voice in pursuit of rights, justice, and a more equitable world – from her early work as a labor organizer to her iconic years at the helm of Planned Parenthood. Cecile’s determination to champion abortion access – to be bold and unapologetic in the face of attacks and pushback – will remain a source of inspiration for years to come. 

Cecile has been a constant presence in our community for decades – at protests, at congressional hearings, at closed door meetings. And she always brought a fierce will, grace under pressure, and full-hearted commitment to everything she did.  Even this past summer, during her illness, she shared words that I know will continue to inspire new generations of leaders: “One day, our children and grandchildren may ask us, ‘When it was all on the line, what did you do?’ The only acceptable answer is, ‘Everything we could.’” 

My deepest condolences and prayers are with her family, friends, and our fearless colleagues at Planned Parenthood Federation of America. 

The Institute for Women’s Policy Research strives to win economic equity for all women and eliminate barriers to their full participation in society. As a leading national think tank, IWPR builds evidence to shape policies that grow women’s power and influence, close inequality gaps, and improve the economic well-being of families. Learn more at IWPR.org and follow us on Twitter.