Biden gives Medal of Freedom to abortion activist former head of Planned Parenthood

Biden said that Richards has "led some of our Nation’s most important civil rights causes — to lift up the dignity of workers, defend and advance women’s reproductive rights and equality, and mobilize Americans to exercise their power to vote," per The Hill. Richards led Planned Parenthood for 12 years, leaving the organization in 2018 to co-found the progressive organization Supermajority and also serves as co-chair of super PAC American Bridge 21st Century.

During her time at Planned Parenthood, The Hill said she worked to increase "affordable access to reproductive health care and helped push the Democratic Party to embrace abortion rights as a key issue."

Biden said of Richards, "A leader of utmost character, she has carved an inspiring legacy that endures in her incredible family, the countless lives she has made better, and a nation seeking the light of equality, justice, and freedom." The Medal of Freedom is awarded by a president to civilians who have made an "especially meritorious contribution" to the country.

Brian Burch, president of CatholicVote, told the Washington Times regarding Richards being given the honor, "This honor marks a dark chapter in the late stages of one of other darkest presidencies in American history when it comes to protecting mothers and unborn children. Planned Parenthood has used billions of taxpayer dollars to profit from the tragic extermination of millions of children, while exploiting the health and wellbeing of countless women."

Vice president of communication for Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America Emily Erin Davis said that "the White House continues to promote abortion up to the bitter end."

"Under Cecile Richards, Planned Parenthood ended more than 3.8 million unborn lives and was caught harvesting baby body parts for sale. Where is the ‘freedom’ for babies and moms? It’s time to end Planned Parenthood’s taxpayer-funded ride," she said.

In 2015, Richards and her organization came under fire after an undercover video showed a senior staff member talking about how Planned Parenthood had received money in exchange for fetal tissue for medical research. Richards apologized and Planned Parenthood altered its fetal tissue sales policies. Selling fetal tissue for profit in the US is illegal.