In 1973, seven out of nine justices declared that the children in the womb
are not persons under the Constitution. They thereby excluded a whole segment of
the human family from the protection of the law, and from the recognition that
all are created equal.
On every single day of the almost 35 years that have since passed, the older
brothers and sisters of these children throughout America have called on the
nation to restore love and protection to them. And each year tens of thousands
of pro-lifers have come to Washington, DC on the day of that tragic decision.
This January, we will come again.
This January, we should come again in greater numbers than ever before.
The March for Life
The March for Life is a great annual family reunion for the pro-life
movement. Tens of thousands from across America arrive by bus and plane, and
gather for a midday rally. They are encouraged by speeches from pro-life
leaders, legislators, and clergy. Miss Nellie Gray, who has led the March from
the beginning, effectively calls the participants to focus on the goal of the
pro-life movement: full protection of each and every human person from
fertilization!
After the rally, the march itself takes the crowd on a route to the Supreme
Court, where prayers and hymns continue, and friends greet each other. Many also
go to lobby their elected officials at this time. The whole event is well
organized and peaceful. It is filled with thanksgiving to God that prolifers
have been able to March for Life for so many years despite many
obstacles. A multitude of dedicated young people join in this celebration of
Life as a gift endowed by our Creator.
Although most participants come only for the march itself, there is actually
entire convention on the previous day. Participants are educated in the life
principles and taught practical strategies for defending life. This convention
is open to all. The entire event concludes with a beautiful banquet, the Rose
Dinner, which honors the many people who work in the pro-life movement.
But What Good Does the March Do?
1. 1. It gives voice to the children. Yes, abortion continues
unabated. But it does not continue unchallenged. The presence of marchers in
Washington is a prophetic call to the government and to the nation. When a
tragedy goes on and on, the voice of those who defend the victims must only
increase, not fall silent.
2. It gives encouragement to our friends in government. Those in
Congress who support the right to life need to hear from us. They need to see
that we are out there in great numbers, so that they can continue to call for an
end to abortion.
3. It encourages us. Participants come away from the march invigorated
and inspired for another year of work. They see those laboring with them across
the country, and know they are part of a great movement.
4. It trains young leaders. I received my own inspiration to be active
in this movement when I attended the March for Life as a high school student.
Countless other young people receive similar inspiration from this event each
year.
See You in DC!
Let's go ahead and make this year's March for Life the largest March
Washington has ever seen! Let's announce and plan it starting today. And
let's look forward to seeing each other in DC!
Messages from President Bush to the March for Life can be found by
clicking here.
Why I March for Life
