Planned Parenthood Federation of America Celebrates the Life of Valerie DeFillipo, Tireless Advocate for Sexual and Reproductive Rights

The global reproductive rights movement lost a visionary this month. We mourn the passing of Valerie DeFillipo, a passionate leader for women’s reproductive freedom in the U.S. and around the globe and a beloved member of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America family.


Valerie’s advocacy improved the lives of countless women and young people — and her legacy and contributions live on. Valerie was instrumental in Planned Parenthood’s global engagement, having led the Global Partners program, which connected affiliates and policy makers in the U.S. with partners around the world.  Additionally, Valerie brought her effective leadership to key roles at Planned Parenthood affiliates, leading innovative education campaigns with Planned Parenthood of New York City and as the executive director of Planned Parenthood of Greater Miami. She also served as a senior leader at the International Planned Parenthood Federation in London, and most recently, led the newly created Family Planning 2020, a global initiative that supports the right of women and girls to decide whether, when, and how many children they want to have.


“Valerie devoted her entire career to supporting sexual and reproductive health and rights,” said Cecile Richards, president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America. “Her commitment and contributions to Planned Parenthood and so many other organizations in the movement leave us better prepared to take on the challenges ahead and deliver on her vision that women and girls should have access to the reproductive health services and contraceptives they want, no matter where they live. Her work, and her tenacity, inspired us all who had the benefit of working with her. Our hearts are with her family at this difficult time.”


“Valerie will be missed for her strong advocacy for women and girls around the world,” said Latanya Mapp Frett, executive director of Planned Parenthood Global. “She was a friend and mentor who always spoke up and spoke out. A lesson to us all.”


Messages of condolences will be shared with her family and can be sent to RememberingValerie@familyplanning2020.org.
 


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Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable health care for women, men, and young people, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With more than 700 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect and without judgment. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable health information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives.


Source


Planned Parenthood Federation of America