Voto Latino Mourns the Passing of Cecile Richards, a Champion for Reproductive Rights and Social Justice

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Voto Latino mourns the loss of Cecile Richards, the former president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, who passed away this week. As a tireless advocate for reproductive rights, women’s health, and social justice, Cecile’s leadership has inspired millions and left an indelible mark on the fight for equality and access to healthcare.

“Cecile Richards dedicated her life to ensuring that every person, regardless of race, class, or background, had access to the reproductive healthcare they deserved. She was a fierce champion for the rights of women, especially those from marginalized communities, and her leadership at Planned Parenthood set the standard for advocacy, compassion, and progress.

Under Cecile’s leadership, Planned Parenthood expanded its mission to reach communities across the nation, pushing for legislative protections and advancing the rights of women and families. Her work not only shaped policies but also empowered a generation of activists who continue the fight for justice and equality.

Cecile understood the power of community and the importance of amplifying the voices of those who are most vulnerable. Her legacy is not just in the policies she helped enact, but in the lives she touched and the movements she helped build. At Voto Latino, we carry her vision forward by continuing the fight to protect reproductive rights, health care access, and the freedom to choose.

As Voto Latino stands at the intersection of civic engagement and social justice, we commit to honoring Cecile’s memory by advancing the work she so passionately championed. Her passing is a profound loss, but her legacy will continue to guide and inspire us in our fight for equality.

We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, colleagues, and to all those whose lives were touched by her work.”

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Voto Latino is a grassroots political organization focused on educating and empowering a new generation of Latino voters, as well as creating a more robust and inclusive democracy. Since its founding, Voto Latino has registered over 1.4 million voters, mobilized tens of thousands of voters in the 2022 midterms, helping to defeat the so-called “red wave” and keep the Senate majority-Democrat. In 2024, Voto Latino filed several lawsuits to defend voting rights in Texas, Arizona, and North Carolina ahead of the elections.