Media Center: Press Release

Champion of Choice Award Recognizes Doctors on National Day of Appreciation for Abortion Providers

Albany, NY—Family Planning Advocates of New York State today presented the Champion of Choice Award to abortion providers throughout New York State.  The award was presented in Albany at Family Planning Advocates 31st Annual Conference.  The Champion of Choice award recognizes abortion providers’ contributions to expanding reproductive healthcare choices.

“We are honoring our state’s abortion providers today for the essential healthcare services they courageously provide to women in their communities and to those who travel from across the country for high quality care in New York,” said JoAnn M. Smith, president and CEO of Family Planning Advocates of New York State.

Dr. Albert G. Thomas, a board member of Physicians for Reproductive Choice and Health, and Donna Williams, executive director of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists District II/New York, accepted the award on behalf of physicians throughout the state who provide abortion services.

“It’s an honor to represent the brave physicians who provide abortions in New York,” said Dr. Thomas.  “While New York has long championed a woman’s right to abortion, our state has also seen some of the worst anti-choice violence in the country, including the murder of Dr. Barnett Slepian.  This day, and this award, remind us of the courageous professionals who provide essential reproductive care to women despite the personal risk.”

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