Despite the threat of a blizzard, tens of thousands of pro-life activists gathered in Washington, D.C. for the 43rd annual March for Life on January 22. Despite the shameless media reports emphasizing the “small crowds”due to the blizzard threat, throngs of people still managed to pack the mall, streets and sidewalks as they marched upon the capital. Marchers have grown accustomed to the media, which suffer from a visual impairment—both pathological and psychological—that prevents them from accurately reporting on any great event in defense of family values.
Determination marked this year’s crowds of pro-lifers. Their strong principles inspired them to weather the discomforts of travel and cold. Not ten minutes after the march began, snow began falling. Instead of complicating the progress of the march, the steadily falling blanket of white added a surreal beauty to the occasion. The march took on a marvelous aspect in the storm, as the uncomfortable conditions helped stiffen the resolve of those present.
As usual, youth were out in full force to send the message that the pro-life movement will never die. Regardless of the winter storm, the freezing temperature or the difficult trip, young and old willingly suffered to show their serious rejection of abortion.
The American Society for the Defense of Tradition, Family and Property (TFP) was present with a contingent of over one hundred members, supporters and friends, who carried banners and the characteristic red standards of the TFP. They distributed the TFP statement: “Fighting Abortion at its Core: A Call for a Return to Order.” (Click here to read the statement.)
The TFP’s Holy Choirs of Angels marching band uplifted and encouraged the spirits of those present with a selection of patriotic hymns and American marches. The ensemble of brass, fifes and drums had never been deterred by a storm before and the stirring strains of the bagpipes cut through the snow to energize the passing crowds.
The March for Life in Washington, D.C. is an important act of reparation for the horrible sin of abortion. It is essential that the pro-life movement refuse to allow abortion to become a private matter or a simple choice. That is why protesting abortion is not just political activism, it is a sacred duty. And with God’s aid and the intercession of Our Lady, the protests will not stop until there is a total victory in the fight for the unborn. This year’s storm only confirms the movement’s dedication to fight—despite everything.