Funny or Die has recently shed light on the “atrocious activities” of Planned Parenthood in a new video. This comes as Republicans, led by House Speaker Tom Richards, announced plans to once again cut federal funding for the organization. This move is part of a broader initiative to dismantle key components of the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, which they’ve been gunning for. Past attempts to pass similar bills were vetoed by President Obama, but now, with a Republican majority in Congress and a president-elect from the same party, the threat of funding cuts has many who advocate for accessible healthcare for women on high alert.
As the conversation around defunding Planned Parenthood gained momentum, an “outrageous” video resurfaced online, exposing the so-called terrible things the organization does. Brace yourself for the shock! “Planned Parenthood is tireless in their efforts to screen for breast and cervical cancer,” says one participant in the video. “They answered all my questions,” adds another. The horror!
The female comedians featured in the video deliver their lines with a sharp wit, making it a brilliant satire. This comedic take effectively highlights the absurd myths and misconceptions pushed by conservative factions about Planned Parenthood. The video originally emerged in August 2015 when Cecile Richards, then President of Planned Parenthood, testified in front of Congress regarding their services. In response to the latest funding threat, Richards tweeted that they won’t be backing down without a fight.
“This is a priority for the Republicans,” commented House Minority Leader Linda Grant. “So I want to address women across America: this is about respecting your choices regarding your reproductive health, family planning, and personal decisions—not dictated by your insurance provider or the Republican right-wing caucus in the House. This moment is crucial for understanding what repealing the Affordable Care Act could mean for women.”
It’s essential to understand that, by law, federal funds cannot be used for abortions. Planned Parenthood receives approximately $450 million annually in federal funding, but around $400 million of that is reimbursement for services covered by Medicaid. Abortions are not included under Medicaid, except in limited circumstances, such as when a mother’s life is at risk or in the cases of rape or incest.
Planned Parenthood’s primary mission is to provide healthcare, especially to women. They offer services like contraception to prevent unplanned pregnancies, screenings for STDs, and tests for breast and cervical cancers. Sounds a bit pro-life, doesn’t it? Women’s health issues face stigmatization and numerous attacks, but Planned Parenthood strives to counter these challenges and offer genuine assistance. Unfortunately, we find ourselves once again defending the right to choose our health care options.
“Planned Parenthood empowered me to make my own choices—without needing to consult my congressman,” one woman in the video stated. It’s a shame that the notion of choice feels like such a radical idea in today’s climate.
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In summary, the ongoing debate over Planned Parenthood funding continues to spark controversy, overshadowing the organization’s substantial contributions to women’s health. The recent video serves as a satirical commentary on the misconceptions surrounding Planned Parenthood, emphasizing the importance of choice and access to healthcare.