Planned Parenthood Federation of America and Planned Parenthood Action Fund Honors Rep. Barbara Lee with Reproductive Health Icon Award

WASHINGTON, DC — On Saturday, September 14, 2024, Planned Parenthood Federation of America and Planned Parenthood Action Fund honored the career and undeniable legacy of Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-12), co-chair of the Pro-Choice Caucus, by presenting her the Reproductive Health Icon Award at a reception held during the annual Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference (CBCF ALC). The event also featured remarks from sexual and reproductive health champion Senator Laphonza Butler (D-CA). 

The Reproductive Health Icon Award honors lifelong leaders for reproductive health care who have unapologetically championed the right to bodily autonomy for Black communities. 

Congresswoman Lee is one of the first members of Congress to courageously share her abortion story on the House floor, cementing her legacy as one of the most unapologetic advocates for protecting access to abortion and reproductive health care. Throughout her career in the House, Congresswoman Lee has been instrumental in fighting to end the discriminatory Hyde Amendment, which disproportionately impacted Black communities. She has worked to permanently repeal the harmful Global Gag Rule and end the Helms Amendment that risks the health and lives of women and girls around the world, and championed sexual and reproductive health and rights at the United Nations. Congresswoman Lee has worked to protect and provide young people’s access to comprehensive sex education and sexual health services, and has worked tirelessly to eliminate racial and ethnic health inequities to enhance the health and well-being of underserved and marginalized communities.

Statement from Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Planned Parenthood Action Fund: 

“Congresswoman Lee is one of the fiercest leaders this movement has had in Congress. She dedicated her career to standing up for every person’s right to make decisions about their own body. She has stood in her power to champion and demand access to sexual and reproductive health care for Black people, never backing down from a fight in some of our nation’s most challenging moments. We are grateful to her decades-long support of Planned Parenthood patients, providers, and health centers. The movement for reproductive rights would not be what it is today without her courage, tenacity, and undaunted commitment to justice.”

Statement from Congresswoman Barbara Lee: 

“I am deeply humbled and honored to receive this award. Particularly from Planned Parenthood—who not only provide care and support to millions of people, but also help us in Congress to build a better future through their advocacy and expertise. I accept this award not just for myself but for all who have been part of the fight for reproductive justice and equity. Thank you for this honor, and thank you for standing with me and with all those who believe in true reproductive justice. Together, we will continue to fight for a better, more equitable future.” 

Congresswoman Lee has served in Congress for over 25 years and will retire at the end of this term. 

###

Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable sexual and reproductive health care for all people, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With nearly 600 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect, and without judgment, striving to create equitable access to health care. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable education and information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives. Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that supports the independently incorporated Planned Parenthood affiliates operating health centers across the U.S.

Planned Parenthood Action Fund is an independent, nonpartisan, not-for-profit membership organization formed as the advocacy and political arm of Planned Parenthood Federation of America. The Action Fund engages in educational, advocacy, and limited electoral activity, including grassroots organizing, legislative advocacy, and voter education