Planned Parenthood Alert

[H2O Man]

I had an interesting phone call today, from a young man who is a volunteer for Planned Parenthood. Sometimes when I get a call similar to this, I can tell that I'm talking to a person who is really invested in what he/she is working on. Such was the case with this fellow. He is from the state of Mississippi, but presently resides in the city of Boston, where he attends college. He is pursuing a career in psychology.

We discussed the attack on Planned Parenthood, which I think everyone on this forum would agree is distinct from the actions of sincere people who seek ways to reduce the number of abortions in America. It's about imposing a minority religious group's moral values on everyone; about denying women control of their being; and about cutting services to the poor.

I told my new friend that, as a retired social worker, I could think of hundreds of people I knew who had benefited from the services of Planned Parenthood, although I could not identify a single one who had had an abortion. Perhaps someone had; but I have never considered that to be my interest. It is in my interest, however, as a citizen of this nation, to have Planned Parenthood able to provide the array of services that they traditionally do.

Again, forum members are clearly aware of the current conflict over federal funding for parts of these services. Here is a link to a recent news story:

http://www.news-sentinel.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/SE/20110409/NEWS/104090340

It is important to be aware that Planned Parenthood needs contributions from the larger community, in order to meet the needs of those they serve. Like most Americans, I am feeling the economic pinch right now. I do not have any “extra” money sitting around, gathering dust or interest. But I'm making a donation. And I'm encouraging you to consider supporting Planned Parenthood.

Here is a link:

http://www.news-sentinel.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/SE/20110409/NEWS/104090340

Another important point: Even at this time – or, perhaps especially at this time – it is important for people to call, write, and/or e-mail their elected representatives, and register their support for Planned Parenthood. This includes the White House. Let them know that proposed cuts are unacceptable.

The fight to protect Planned Parenthood is not over. In fact, it's just beginning a new stage.

[RUMMYisFROSTED]

1. Support for PP is a no-brainer.

How about support for all the other shit that got cut?

Cede, cede, cede.

[H2O Man]

14. Disagree and agree.

I think it is better approached intelligently, than viewed in the context of a "no-brainer."

If a person starts with Planned Parenthood -- or substitutes another equally valid concern -- it allows for building on it as a foundation. There actually have been times when DUers have engaged in coordinated activities. So, as an example, if I post about Planned Parenthood today, and people here respond positively, it helps the next person post on another topic tomorrow, and increases the possibility of a positive response.

More, forum members are able (and encouraged) to engage in promoting Planned Parenthood awareness in other areas of their daily lives. That same dynamic holds true for the many other important issues we should be focusing on.

Far, far too much energy is being invested in meaningless quarreling on this forum. We do not have that luxury. We need to be focused on the serious business at hand.

[kestrel91316]

2. I used PP for my annual gyn exam and birth control Rx for YEARS.

And no, I never once had an abortion, through them or anyone else.

[onlyadream]

7. Me too, back when I had no $$ in college

My sister also. Just regular stuff, no abortions. They charged on a sliding scale, if I remember correctly.

[SharonAnn]

16. Me too! When I was in college and then for several years after. They

provided inexpensive birth control pills, appropriate physical exams and checkups, and i could ask all kinds of questions that I would've been too embarrassed to ask our family doctor.

[stevedeshazer]

3. Planned Parenthood was and is very good for my family.

I want it to continue on.

Thanks for the suggestion, I'll take you up on it.

You must have talked to this fellow for a while, you practically know his life history!

I also enjoy speaking to young volunteers. I always encourage them in word, and a bit of a donation when I can afford it.

[H2O Man]

4. Any time

someone asks me for any type of contribution, I want to know who they are. Sometimes people respond rudely to my questions. This gentleman was a pleasure to speak with.

[spanone]

5. k&r...

[scarletwoman]

6. k&r

[Raffi Ella]

8. K&R

and if you're on Twitter follow them, http://twitter.com/#!/PPact

You can also look up your States PP on Twitter to follow.

[bertman]

9. Great post. REC. nt

[librechik]

10. if only we had taken up a campaign like this for ACORN it might still be alive

The Right is out to destroy all our cherished intitutions. Don't let them do it.

[Search4Justice]

11. PP does good works.

That Repubs want to destroy such a worthy and needed organization, only shows how mis-informed or downright evil they are.

[Raffi Ella]

12. Exactly, Welcome to D.U.

This War On Women is despicable- I #StandWithPP

[BlancheSplanchnik]

13. I donate monthly, automatic payment.

Because of two main reasons, at least in my mind:

1) Precious few organizations really help women in this misogynistic world.

2) anything that helps reduce the human burden on the planet in a responsible, pro-active way is incredibly important. Our relentlessly expanding numbers are killing everything else.



Thank You, H2OMan :)

[musette_sf]

15. (1) PP provided my BC when I was young and poor

(2) I donate monthly to PP today