Biden Awards Medal of Freedom to Former Planned Parenthood President Cecile Richards

The honor recognizes Richards' work on reproductive rights and civil liberties during her tenure at Planned Parenthood and beyond.

President Joe Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Cecile Richards in a private ceremony on November 20, 2024.
Richards served as president of Planned Parenthood from 2006 to 2018, overseeing significant expansion in abortion access and reproductive health services.
The White House cited her contributions to civil rights, gender equality, and mobilizing voter participation as reasons for the award.
Richards has faced criticism for her leadership at Planned Parenthood, including allegations of fetal tissue sales and the organization's role in millions of abortions during her tenure.
Richards, who was diagnosed with glioblastoma in 2023, continues to advocate for abortion rights and gender equity through organizations she co-founded after leaving Planned Parenthood.