2/3 Breaking Update: Komen has just issued a statement apologizing and saying they will continue to fund Planned Parenthood. This is the right move and I applaud their decision.
As a minister in the United Church of Christ, I have supported the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation and urged others to do the same. But with their 100% political - political, not medical - decision to defund Planned Parenthood because the GOP House is conducting a McCarthy-era like witch hunt of the organization, I can no longer support the organization.
This is not a decision I make lightly as my family, like many, has experienced the painful realities of breast cancer.
But I agree 100% with New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg who said today: "Politics has no place in health care. Breast cancer screening saves lives and hundreds of thousands of women rely on Planned Parenthood for access to care."
Anti-abortion advocates for years have attempted to force Komen from working with Planned Parenthood. They've won that battle for now.
I still hope Komen will step back from the politics - fire anti-abortion activist Karen Handel - and get back to medicine. Click here to send them a message.
And please join other people of faith at the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice in continuing the fight for women's health care.
I still stand with Planned Parenthood:
Portland Stand With Planned Parenthood Rally from The Rev. Chuck Currie on Vimeo.
Update: I'm glad to learn that Komen Oregon has issued a statement opposing their national organization that reads in part:
Komen Oregon is opposed to the new national Komen community grant eligibility policy. Not only will this decision affect Planned Parenthood, but also any other organization under investigation. The implications will be far reaching, having an adverse effect on numerous grantees. Ultimately it will compromise our ability to provide life-saving access to breast cancer screening and treatment for the most vulnerable women.
I hope this local leadership has a positive impact on the national organization.
