U.S. Senators Mazie K. Hirono and Gary Peters, along with U.S. Representative Ayanna Pressley, announced on March 10 the reintroduction of a bicameral resolution to recognize March 10, 2026 as “Abortion Provider Appreciation Day.” The resolution is supported by over 30 members of Congress and aims to honor abortion providers and staff for their work in reproductive care despite facing threats and political challenges.
The resolution comes at a time when abortion providers continue to face violence and harassment, as highlighted by a recent National Abortion Federation report documenting ongoing incidents such as stalking and death threats directed at patients, providers, and volunteers. Lawmakers say the measure affirms the essential role these professionals play in ensuring safe access to reproductive health services.
“Amidst Trump and Republicans’ attacks on our fundamental reproductive rights, I am proud to reintroduce this resolution to honor the bravery of health professionals who provide critical care to thousands of patients across the country and help them even in the face of violence, threats, and intimidation,” said Senator Mazie K. Hirono. “As we commemorate Abortion Provider Appreciation Day, we recognize Dr. Gunn’s legacy and the crucial and lifesaving care these health care professionals provide and reaffirm our commitment to protecting and securing reproductive rights for all.”
Senator Gary Peters said: “I’m proud to again lead this resolution with Senator Hirono honoring the abortion providers and clinic staff who help women and their families receive the safe, quality health care they need. Despite constant threats and attacks from politicians and judges, they continue to work day in and day out to deliver critical and often lifesaving care. I will never stop fighting to protect these providers and the rights of the women and families that they serve.”
Representative Ayanna Pressley added: “On the 30th commemoration of Abortion Providers Appreciation Day, we honor the courage and care of dedicated health providers who deliver essential reproductive health care to patients, even amid threats to their own personal safety… While Trump and Republicans attack our bodily autonomy… we continue to fight for the promise of the fundamental right to reproductive freedom.”
The day was established in memory of Dr. David Gunn, an abortion provider killed outside his clinic in Pensacola, Florida by an anti-abortion extremist—the first known murder of an abortion provider in America. His children Wendy Gunn and David Gunn Jr., said: “Dad endured relentless harassment… because he trusted they [patients], not the government or religious zealots, knew what was in their best interests… Our family continues to stand with everyone involved in ensuring everyone has access to safe, legal abortion…”
The resolution also condemns Supreme Court decisions limiting abortion access; lauds communities supporting providers; affirms Congress’s commitment to safety for healthcare workers; calls for a future without restrictions or bans; recognizes March 10 as Abortion Provider Appreciation Day; celebrates supportive communities; affirms patient rights regardless of location; condemns Supreme Court decisions restricting access; declares a vision free from all restrictions.
Organizations endorsing include Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA), National Abortion Federation (NAF), National Network of Abortion Funds (NNAF), Physicians for Reproductive Health among others.
Senator Hirono provides assistance with federal agency matters such as Social Security claims or veterans benefits according to her official website. She achieved several milestones including being elected as the first Asian American woman senator according to her official website. Hirono immigrated from Japan as a child with her mother and brother according to her official website.
Looking ahead, supporters say this annual recognition seeks not only remembrance but continued advocacy for safe access nationwide.
