Let’s talk about the heart of the United States, shall we? The Buckeye State has been a colossal monstrosity since Attorney General, Mike DeWine’s mid-July 2015 accusations of Planned Parenthood selling fetal parts led to an extensive investigation of Planned Parenthood’s ethical medical practices, including disposing of fetal tissue in an inhumane manner (Thanks, Mike). Naturally, following those accusations came a bill signed by Governor John Kasich February 2015, which blocked government funds to any organization which promotes or performs “non-therapeutic” abortion services. Planned Parenthood moved to sue Ohio over the bill that stripped funding, claiming that it violated rights under the First Amendment, punishing Planned Parenthood for providing legal abortions and advocating for safe, legal abortions. Planned Parenthood also asserted that the bill violated the Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses of the 14th Amendment, because it deliberately segregated Planned Parenthood from other health care providers. After investigators came up empty-handed with evidence of fetal tissue sales and failed to link the disposal of fetal remains to violation of Ohio administrative code, state officials agreed to dismiss the lawsuit, agreeing that the state of Ohio would pay back $45,447 in legal fees to Planned Parenthood, as well as blocking the bill to defund the clinic.
Here are 5 reasons why we’re supporting the Planned Parenthood win in Ohio:
Sexual & Reproductive health services impact everyone.
Planned Parenthood assists its patients with accessing necessary contraception which is often used for multiple health concerns such as menstruation regulation, skin care, menstrual pain relief, easing endometriosis, lowering risks of cancer, and preventing unplanned pregnancy.
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Testing & Treatment is Necessary to Public Health.
Testing as well as treatment is given for Sexually Transmitted Infections such as Chancroid, Chlamydia, Genital Warts, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis B, Herpes, HIV & AIDS, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), Molluscum Contagiosum, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), Pubic Lice (Crabs), Scabies, Syphilis, and Trichomoniasis (Trich).
Planned Parenthood provides essential domestic violence resources to survivors.
In a world where one in four women will experience domestic violence in their lifetimes, it’s time we support the few organizations that provide support and resources for survivors of violence.
Comprehensive Sex Education is vital in reduction of unplanned pregnancy.
Abstinence-only sex education is not working. Sex is a natural part of human nature and we as human beings, generally enjoy sex. It feels good, and it’s supposed to. It’s no surprise that abstinence-only education programs are ineffective in both deterring the sexual activity of youth and decreasing teen pregnancy rates. Planned Parenthood provides comprehensive, sex-positive education so that our youth can, if they choose, engage in sexual activity while making educated choices. Sex happens whether or not we as a society always makes good decisions about sex. Planned Parenthood ensures that when individuals are ready to explore their sexuality, they are smart and cautious of the responsibilities that come with sex.
Cervical and Breast cancer screening saves lives of Planned Parenthood patients.
Planned Parenthood provides a plethora of critical services that screen for cancer such as pap smear testing, breast exams and care, mammogram referrals, colonoscopy procedures (necessary for the diagnosis of abnormal cell growth in the cervix), LOOP/LEEP and Cryotherapy procedures (treatment for abnormal growth). Without these services, cancer will inevitably go undetected in thousands of Ohioans.
Contrary to popular opinion, the bill to defund Planned Parenthood did not defund abortions. The bill defunded contraception to those trying to practice responsible family planning and engage in responsible sexual activity. The bill defunded treatment for those with sexually transmitted infections who may have not had accessible treatment elsewhere. The bill defunded programs that give resources to individuals escaping violent and abusive relationships. The bill defunded screenings for cancer, that otherwise will go undetected. This bill defunded the quality of life Planned Parenthood patients are able to receive and access. It’s time Ohio takes a step away from this next-level idiocy and starts looking at the bigger picture.
