Women of the Congressional Black Caucus’ Statement on Women’s Health and the Government Shutdown

For Immediate Release: April 8, 2011

Communications Director:  Stephanie L. Young o:  c: 

 

Women of the Congressional Black Caucus’ Statement on Women’s Health and the Government Shutdown

Washington, DC – This afternoon, the women of the Congressional Black Caucus, issued the following statement on the potential government shutdown:

“Like millions of women in the United States, we serve in multiple roles in our communities and families. As daughters, sisters, wives, mothers, caregivers, and Congresswomen, we understand the complex demands and responsibilities placed on women daily.  Fortunately, we have access to affordable healthcare when we need cancer screenings, blood pressure screenings, and family planning services.  Unfortunately, many women in our communities do not have that same access, and community clinics like Planned Parenthood and local health departments are essential to their health, wellbeing and livelihood.

“All women deserve access to affordable healthcare that provides them with lifesaving screenings, preventative care, and family planning tools. More than five million women use health centers funded by the federal government every year and 75% of those women have incomes below the 150% poverty level.  Under Title X funding, cancer screenings, HIV testing, health education and prenatal care are the services most provided by Planned Parenthood.  Abortion funding is NOT allowed with the use of federal funds.  These clinics are vital to the health and wellbeing of our nation’s most vulnerable communities and it is preposterous that the Republican leadership wants to deny our nation’s citizens access to healthcare.

“We are disgusted with the Republican leadership’s irresponsibility and political grandstanding at the expense of the health of millions of women in this country.  This debate is no longer about reducing the national deficit, it is about ideology. Let us get back to the real issues— responsibly reducing the deficit and balancing the budget, not playing politics with the health and wellbeing of American women.”

 

 

-          The Women of the Congressional Black Caucus

 

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