On January 27, 2017, pro-life advocates flooded the streets of Washington, DC for the 44th annual Right to Life march. This year’s march was historic, and I was lucky enough to be a part of it. I, along with a large group from Seton Hall University, proudly represented the ‘pro-life generation.’ It was an overwhelming and amazing experience. At 6:30 a.m., we packed a bus full and headed toward the Nation’s Capital. Four hours later, we unloaded and dispersed into the massive crowd of pro-life activists. The city was filled with posters and positivity for change because for the first time in a very long time, there seemed to be more hope for the pro-life cause.
Speakers ranging from Vice President Mike Pence, to Benjamin Watson, the tight end for the Baltimore Ravens, to Eric Metaxas, a bestselling author and radio host, and many more presented to the crowd their mutual beliefs that all life is precious. Vice President Pence was the first Vice President in history to appear at the March and it was a privilege to have heard such a prominent figure in our government fighting for the movement. As a proud New Jerseyan, I was pleased to see New Jersey Republican Representative Chris Smith speak up and share his pro-life values with the crowd. One of my favorite lines from the day came from the President of the March for Life, Jeanne Mancini when she said, "We're like the mailman, we are always here." That could not be more true. No matter what the weather, crowds of people have been marching for the movement since the passing of Roe V. Wade in 1973. Since then, there have been over 58 million lives taken away by abortions. The atmosphere of the crowd was powerful, and it is evident that the March will continue until there is change.
After hearing the amazing speakers, the March to the Capitol began. I was able to meet people from all over the nation. People from Ohio, Alabama, North Dakota, and many other states attended the march and raised their voices for the unborn. My friends and I were in the heart of the crowd where chanting, singing, and an overpowering feeling of unity filled the air. What stood out the most was meeting both women who had abortions and regretted it and women who wanted to thank birth moms for choosing life and giving up their child for adoption. ‘Silent No More’ testimonies were given outside the U.S. Supreme Court and people were given the chance to visit with their local representatives and senators to advocate for change.
It is an amazing sentiment to feel like you are making a difference. Attending the March for Life was not just for fun or about babies. I marched for all human lives and all human rights. The overall experience was inspiring. It was so comforting to be surrounded by people who share your values and are willing to speak up for change.
