Pro-Life Leaders Rally at Lincoln Memorial, Advocating for Full Legal Protection of the Unborn

On the first anniversary of the overturning of Roe v. Wade, a gathering of pro-life leaders rallied hundreds of supporters on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Their unified message emphasized the need for full, legal protection of the unborn from the moment of conception across all 50 states.

Highlights

By Catholic Online (NEWS CONSORTIUM)
6/26/2023 (1 year ago)

Published in Living Faith

Keywords: Pro-Life, Washington D.C., rally, unborn, children, pre-born

Kristan Hawkins, president of Students for Life of America, addressed the crowd on a sunny summer day, acknowledging the progress made with pro-life legislation in 25 states. However, she stressed that the United States remains a divided nation, where the fate of an unborn child depends on their geographical location.

Hawkins urged for an America where every human being is recognized as a unique individual with equal rights and protection under the 14th Amendment. She emphasized the belief shared by pro-life leaders that every human being is a person at the moment of conception, and the equal justice clauses of the 14th Amendment should apply to unborn children.

Lila Rose, president of Live Action, expressed disappointment that the protections afforded by the 14th Amendment have not been extended to preborn children. She referred to the 14th Amendment as a beautiful note in the nation's song but highlighted the failure to apply it fully to protect the unborn.

Former vice president and Republican presidential candidate Mike Pence made an appearance at the rally, calling for increased efforts and prayers to advance the cause of life in every state. Pence emphasized the importance of supporting women facing crisis pregnancies with resources and care.

Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of SBA Pro-life America, advised potential 2024 presidential candidates to take action and stand for their beliefs without delay. She urged them to recognize the consensus among the majority of Americans who support limiting abortion to the first three months of pregnancy.

The rally witnessed significant youth participation, including Katriel Nyman, a 17-year-old member of Students for Life Tri-Cities. Nyman found it encouraging to see people advocating for rights from conception, and she emphasized the need for pro-lifers to persevere even if abortion is illegal in their state.

Another attendee, Munshi, identified herself as a Muslim who believed, based on her faith, that abortion is generally wrong. She expressed her view that life begins in the early weeks after conception and acknowledged the increased discourse around the abortion issue, leading individuals to form their own conclusions.

Jessica Newell, a Catholic student interning with Live Action, emphasized the importance of educating people about the truth of biology and their intrinsic value as beings created in the image of God. She believed that expressing love and compassion is crucial in transforming the culture to embrace a culture of life.

Melissa Ohden, a survivor of a saline-infusion abortion, stood alongside her daughter at the rally, holding a sign that stated, "Babies survive abortions. I am one of them." Ohden acknowledged the significance of the Roe v. Wade overturn but emphasized the ongoing need for continuous action and support.

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Ohden, who leads the Abortion Survivors Network, noted an increase in women reaching out after failed chemical abortions since the Dobbs decision. She emphasized the pro-life movement's commitment to providing resources, support, and pushing for policies that aid mothers, children, and families at various levels.

Olivia, Ohden's daughter, expressed her admiration for being at the rally with her mother. She believed that people like her mom deserve protection regardless of who they are or where they are.