Planned Parenthood supporters hosted a "Stand for Choice" fundraiser Feb. 19 at Parlour on Clark.
Lauren Peters, campaign manager for lesbian state Rep. Kelly Cassidy, initially organized the fundraiser in response to the Susan G. Komen foundation cutting off funding for breast-cancer screenings at Planned Parenthood because the organization provides abortion services.
"A group of us got fed up and decided we were just going to do a fundraiser to directly give to Planned Parenthood," said Peters.
After public outcry, Komen restored funding to Planned Parenthood.
"Komen was really a victim of bullying," said Carole Brite, Planned Parenthood of Illinois CEO. "There were several anti-choice groups who were pressuring them to cut their ties with Planned Parenthood, and they did that about a month ago. The outcry was tremendous, women and men saying you can't put politics in the way of breast cancer [prevention]."
Planned Parenthood health centers provide breast exams, birth control, abortion services, vasectomies, and sexually transmitted infection screenings and treatment in addition to cervical-cancer screenings through pap smears and treatment if the results come back as abnormal.
If people seeking services do not have insurance or do not qualify for Medicaid or other assistance, Planned Parenthood will work with them to make sure they get the services they need, Brite said.
Local political leaders attended the event, including state Rep. Kelly Cassidy, Judge Deborah Jean Gubin and Judge James A. Shapiro.
"I'm doing what I've been doing for more than 20 years. I started my work here doing reproductive rights work and I'm not going to stop anytime soon," said Cassidy. "The attacks haven't stopped. They're the exact same attacks. It's a fight I'm used to having."
"I'm a strong supporter of Planned Parenthood," said Gubin. "Planned Parenthood is not just about choice, although I am pro-choice, but it's also the major health care provider for many women, many poor women throughout the country."
Parlour on Clark donated mimosas; Handlebar donated food; and local musicians Jaclyn T. Rada and Jamie Dull performed.