![Shonda Rhimes supports Planned Parenthood [Image via ABC]](https://staticr1.blastingcdn.com/media/photogallery/2017/4/7/660x290/b_502x220x82/shonda-rhimes-supports-planned-parenthood-image-via-abc_1259361.jpg "Shonda Rhimes supports Planned Parenthood [Image via ABC]")
Shonda Rhimes, EP of “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Scandal,” has made a decision that will divide fans. She opted to take an active step in protecting the rights of women by joining the planned parenthood board. That means she will have a say in decisions and take on a formal role within the organization. The decision has left fans divided, as Planned Parenthood is a regular focus by anti-abortion activists.
‘Grey’s Anatomy’ showrunner wants to protect women’s health
Rhimes defended her decision to join the board, saying that “women’s health is under fire right now.” She wants to fight back against many of the changes currently happening, including Republican lawmakers considering defunding Planned Parenthood.
The view is that Planned Parenthood pushes abortions on young women, although many people who have used services run by the organization state they received the opposite.
It wouldn’t be the first time that Rhimes has mentioned Planned Parenthood and caused controversy. In a 2015 “Scandal” episode, the Congress debated defunding Planned Parenthood and lead character Olivia Pope had an abortion. Cristina Yang in “Grey’s Anatomy” also chose to have an abortion, after accidentally becoming pregnant by her husband at the time.
Planned Parenthood wants to educate and inform
Bringing Rhimes onto the board has been beneficial to Planned Parenthood. The president of the organization, Cecile Richards, shared that bringing the “Grey’s Anatomy” EP onto the board means that there can be more storytelling and creativity into the information shared with the public.
It is time for the organization to educate and inform the public about the services available.
The organization is not just a place for abortions. It is a place for women to get free care and contraception. They can also get support during pregnancy, not just a push for abortions. However, there is an abortion element in a small number of services around the country.
Rhimes is not the only celebrity to bring up the controversial organization lately. “Supernatural’s” Jared Padalecki and his wife Genevieve shared their support for the organization after the birth of their daughter, Odette. Padalecki faced backlash from fans on his Facebook page due to the support of the organization.
After being asked about using the services, Rhimes stated that she has never had to.
She hasn’t been in the financial position to need it, but does know people who have. Regardless, never using the services shouldn’t mean that she can’t help to support women’s health. The “Grey’s Anatomy” EP will continue to support Planned Parenthood by acting as a board member.
