I'm running the Brooklyn Half on Saturday and wanted to try and raise money for something I care about in time for the (rapidly approaching) big day! There are so many causes and problems worthy of our attention that the thought of picking just one made me anxious, but I ended up picking Planned Parenthood. I've used Planned Parenthood's services for many years, for checkups and info sessions regarding if I was experience cramping for scary reasons or conventional-girl-stuff reasons. They truly offer a safe, informative environment for so many different needs and have such a wide array of resources for woman. The fact that they're stigmatized boggles my mind on a regular basis because their mission is so benevolent. They're constantly under attack via conservative criticism coupled with policies made to undercut their success — but they continue to persist in the name of reproductive healthcare because they're fucking rad. Cecile Richards' legacy is so awesome it makes my head hurt, and people like Dawn Laguens will undoubtedly keep its greatness going — but every little bit counts to ensure that more people get the healthcare/answers they need. If you can't donate that is so TOTALLY understandable. But if you like me in any capacity and find the fact that I'm trying to run a half marathon even though I'm laughable unprepared entertaining, then please please please go to Planned Parenthood's website and read about at least one of the services they offer — even if you think you're pretty well-versed. Educating yourself about this awesome provider is totally worth it, because it's so much more than its critics (and even some of its supporters) portray it as.
