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Head of local Susan G. Komen Foundation 'doesn't understand' cut to Planned Parenthood funding
Posted: 02.02.2012 at 6:39 PM Updated: 02.02.2012 at 11:30 PM
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SYRACUSE -- The head of the Central New York chapter of the Susan G. Komen Foundation says she was surprised by the decision to cut funding to Planned Parenthood.
It's causing a fire storm of criticism and outrage online. Click here to see some of the backlash posted on the CNY Komen Chapter's page. Pete MacAnanny wrote "I have lost respect for your organization. I will now donate directly to PP."
The Foundation, known for raising awareness about breast cancer, ended some grants to Planned Parenthood, which does provide breast health exams. Opponents of the decision say it is politically motivated and related to abortion. The Komen Foundation has denied that, saying the decision was not based on "whether one side or the other will be pleased."
"It bothers me, so I can understand why women around the country would be very upset by it," said Gilda DiCaprio who sits on the Women's Commission in Syracuse. "It's very important because many women may not get services, if it wasn't for Planned Parenthood."
Every year, Planned Parenthood gives 750,000 breast exams.
Kate Flannery, Executive Director of the CNY Komen Foundation, tells CNY Central she doesn't understand the decision, and is working to learn more about why it was made. She says, "Together with many other Komen affiliates, we are in discussion with headquarters about this issue...We will continue to to do whatever it takes to embrace all women...of all generations, lifestyles, cultures and level of need."
Some critics are saying Komen's move is political, claiming Komen bowed to pressure from anti-abortion advocates. Linda Brown wrote on Facebook "I cannot support an organization that puts politics before women's health."
The Komen foundation says this is not the result of political pressure. In a video posted on YouTube tonight Founder Nancy Brinker addressed critics saying, "Regrettably this strategic shift will affect any number of long-standing partners but we have always done what is right for our organization."
Komen says it's too soon to tell whether the Central New York chapter will lose out on donations, but she says the potential does exist. The local Planned Parenthood hasn't asked for funds in at least 5 years.
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Information from the Associated Press was used in this report