Sandra Fluke

21 Leaders 2013 Honoree Sandra Fluke

Sandra Fluke is an American lawyer and women's rights activist who came to prominence in 2012. She is best known for her testimony before the United States House of Representatives Democratic Steering and Policy Committee on Contraception and women's health. Her testimony, which was initially denied by a Republican-controlled committee, sparked significant media attention and a national debate on women's rights, health care, and freedom of speech.

Early Life and Education

Sandra Kay Fluke was born on April 17, 1981, in Pennsylvania. She pursued her undergraduate education at Cornell University, where she received a Bachelor of Science in Policy Analysis and Management, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Feminist, Gender, & Sexuality Studies in 2003. Following her undergraduate studies, Fluke dedicated herself to social justice issues, working in New York City for nonprofit and public interest organizations. She later attended Georgetown University Law Center, where she earned her Juris Doctor in 2012. During her time at Georgetown, Fluke was actively involved in advocating for gender equality and reproductive rights.

Advocacy and Testimony

In February 2012, Fluke was invited by Democrats to speak at a Congressional hearing about the importance of requiring insurance plans to cover birth control. However, she was not allowed to testify during the initial hearing, which was predominantly male. This decision by the committee led to public outcry and a subsequent hearing was held where Fluke could present her testimony. In her speech, Fluke discussed the consequences of not having access to contraception, including a friend of hers who needed birth control pills to manage ovarian cysts.

Fluke's testimony and the controversy surrounding it caught the attention of national media, leading to personal attacks from various commentators, most notably Rush Limbaugh, who made derogatory comments about Fluke on his radio show. This incident further fueled the debate over women's reproductive rights and led to widespread support for Fluke from women's groups, politicians, and the public.

Later Career

Following the 2012 controversy, Sandra Fluke continued to advocate for women's rights and healthcare issues. She considered running for political office and in 2014, she ran for the California State Senate. Although she won the primary, she was not elected in the general election. Despite this, Fluke remains an influential figure in the fight for gender equality and reproductive rights.

Personal Life

Sandra Fluke is married and continues to be active in social justice and legal advocacy. She uses her platform to support various causes related to women's health and rights.

Legacy

Sandra Fluke's advocacy work, especially her 2012 Congressional testimony, has had a lasting impact on the discussion around health care policy, women's rights, and the importance of inclusive health coverage in the United States. Her willingness to stand up and speak out on contentious issues has made her a symbol of the modern women's rights movement.