“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Cecile Richards, our founding president at America Votes, longtime president of our close partner Planned Parenthood, an incredible leader for the entire progressive community over many decades, and a dear friend to so many of us in this work.

“Cecile carried the torch in many critical fights for reproductive freedom, justice and democracy. On Capitol Hill, she was instrumental in making Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi the first woman to lead House Democrats and eventually become speaker. At Planned Parenthood, she oversaw tremendous growth and staunched the far-right’s efforts to defund an essential provider of, and advocate for, women’s healthcare and reproductive freedom. 

“We are deeply proud of Cecile’s leadership as our founding president at America Votes. Her hard work and perseverance helped to build a truly unique organization dedicated to coordination, community, and impact and kept that vision alive and active even after the bitter disappointment of the 2004 election. 

“As the country and our community faces a similar moment of disappointment and reflection, it is because of Cecile’s vision and leadership that America Votes is here to help lead the fight back. 

“Cecile carried the torch of leadership, but it was her incredible spirit and good will that lit up every room she entered. Nearly two decades after she left America Votes, our rooms are still full of her stories and sayings. We are so grateful for our time with Cecile, for what she built and left for us, and for the way she went about the work. We send our thoughts and healing best wishes to Kirk, her children, grandchildren, and to all the many people whose lives Cecile indelibly touched.”

The America Votes Senior Leadership Team is: Daria Dawson, Executive Director; Greg Speed, President; Kellie Dupree, National Director of Development; Josh Geise, Senior Advisor; Daniel Gonzales, National Director of Research and Program Innovation; Jasmine Nears, Chief of Staff; Shabab Siddiqui, National Data & Targeting Director; Heidi Schloesser, Chief Operations Officer; Josiette White, National Director of State Network.

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America Votes is the central coordination hub of the progressive community both nationally and in more than 20 states across the country, working with more than 400 state and national partner organizations to advance progressive policies, win elections, and protect every American’s right to vote.