TO: YWCA Local Association Leaders
FROM: YWCA USA Communications
DATE: July 31, 2015
SUBJECT: Planned Parenthood
Dear YWCA Leaders,
As you have likely heard by now, Planned Parenthood has come under intense public scrutiny after portions of hidden camera footage were given to the media by the anti-choice organization, Center for Medical Progress.
YWCA USA has shown our support for Planned Parenthood during this challenging time as we recognize the incredibly important health care services they provide to women across the country including those in low income and underserved communities. We certainly understand that there are many layers to this issue and for that reason, we have intentionally focused our messaging on women’s health, and did not engage in the public debate over the videos.
As an organization dedicated to women’s empowerment with a strong commitment to women’s health and wellness, we believe it is important to stand with Planned Parenthood. At the YWCA, we know all too well that reproductive rights are critical to women’s empowerment. It is also worth noting that YWCA Local Associations ranked reproductive rights very high on the list of agenda items that we should include in our list of national legislative priorities.
We thought it might be useful for us to share a few examples of the YWCA USA messaging and strategy to demonstrate our support for Planned Parenthood. We have used Twitter and Facebook to show our support using #StandWithPP. In addition, along with other organizations, we signed on to a letter to congressional leaders urging them not to weaken or defund the organization. Our message has been and will remain consistent: Planned Parenthood provides critical women’s health services and YWCA USA stands with them.
As you may know, on Monday, August 3, 2015, the Senate will hold a vote regarding Planned Parenthood’s funding. YWCA USA will continue to post supportive health-centered social media messages throughout the day. Please feel encouraged to support your local Planned Parenthood organizations as appropriate for your constituency and your community. For example, you may choose to contact your legislators and talk to your partners and stakeholders about doing the same. You can also join in the conversation on social media using #StandWithPP and follow YWCA USA on Twitter and Facebook for messaging ideas.
Sincerely,
YWCA USA Communications
#NationalCommunications