The 6th annual PA Progressive Summit kicked off tonight with a keynote address from Planned Parenthood President Cecile Richards.
Richards began her remarks by praising Pennsylvania’s new Governor Tom Wolf, for serving as a clinic escort and revealed this had been the first time she was asked to chose her own introductory music (she went with Elvis Presley’s “A Little Less Conversation”).
She then transitioned to her own personal history as the daughter of the well-known Texas Governor Ann Richards.
“If you can elect Ann Richards Governor of Texas, you can accomplish anything in this country,” she proclaimed.
The Planned Parenthood President also pointed to the 48.5 million women who’ll have access to birth control under the Affordable Care Act as a major success.
She recalled the fights during the 2012 elections and the success the organization has experienced recently.
“When Beyonce outs herself as a 100% feminist, it’s hard to describe us as a fringe movement,” she asserted.
Finally, Richards talked about how important the group’s work will be in the future.
“The need for us to lead has never been greater, and our opportunity has never been better,” she said. “We must be loud and proud about who we are and we believe in.”
“When we stand together, nothing can stand in our way,” she concluded.
4 Responses
Was there any word on the next Democrat to be charged with a crime? Just wondering who it will be. I’m rooting for you, Steven Todd.
Great event that gets better every year. Only problem was too little time and too many important discussions. Nice though that there weren’t any rightwing psychopaths cluttering up the place. And Steven, I enjoyed your session.I learned a lot about why we seem to be spinning our wheels in regard to mitigating Climate Change.
She was AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!
I was honored to have presented at this year’s summit, which for the first time ever sold out the Harrisburg Hilton. Here is my full narrative, from which I spoke for about 15 minutes during our fine group’s presentation:
“WHAT’S OUR EXCUSE? – Political Barriers to a Low Carbon Energy Conversion”
https://steventodd.wordpress.com/2015/01/19/2015-pa-progressive-summit-in-harrisburg/
Steve Todd, PE
Precinct 12 Derry Township, Dauphin County Committee Member