Ruth Shapiro Kullman, b. 1951

As part of the city’s Planned Parenthood organization, Kullman helped to launch a unique program that delivered women’s healthcare to those living in the St. Thomas housing development. In 2002, Kullman used her personal journey to explain her pro-choice/pro-women advocacy in a letter of support for the reelection of United States Senator Mary Landrieu. This letter came after Archbishop Philip Hannan publicly opposed Landrieu’s reelection because of an endorsement by Emily’s List, an organization that supported pro-choice candidates. As a founder of the Committee of 21, Kullman worked to elect women to public office, and has been a critical voice in Democratic politics in Louisiana as both a volunteer and professional fundraiser.

Letter, 2002, in support of Mary Landrieu and urging consideration of personal and compelling reasons for reproductive rights. Courtesy, Ruth Kullman.