Stephanie Duenas

Sunshine. Music. An occasional passing cloud but the atmosphere was infectious. Many men and women of all ages gathered at the Washington Monument to kick off the 2023 March for Life. Where once it might have felt like a somber occasion, it was now filled with cheers and celebration. The overturning of Roe vs. Wade has ignited a fire within the hearts for those attending, and with each banner and sign, it was clear the passion for protecting the unborn was growing. In fact in the sea of people, young men and women of the next generation filled the crowds with chants to defend the lives of the most innocent among us.

From an invigorating speech from Jeanne Mancini talking about the “Next Steps” to a Post-Roe America to the inspirational story of Casey Gunning, twin sister to Sr. Mary Casey O’Connor, S.V., there was no shortage of reasons to continue the fight. Alongside them, the powerful addresses from Tony and Lauren Dungy, Jonathan Roumie, Attorney General Lynn Fitch, U. S. Representative Steve Scalise, and others only furthered motivated the people as they prepared to march along the designated route of Washington D.C.

“It is unlike anything I have ever seen,” commented AMU & APU Students for Life President Stephanie Duenas as she marched alongside her husband. “The music playing was full of joy and celebrations. People chanting with happiness as they held up their signs in demand to continue the fight to protect the unborn.” Not only was this a march to show the dedication and promise to protect an infant’s life but also to openly celebrate the victory the Pro-Life movement has achieved. After 49 years of marching, the people gathered were finally marching into a post-Roe America.

Statewide marches are expected to be held in Arizona, California, Connecticut, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia through this year with the hopes to bring this same impact to the state level legislation. Below are the dates available to the marches and it is highly encouraged to make your voice/presence known as we all continue to defend life.

Virginia: February 1, 2023 – Richmond, VA

Arizona: February 23, 2023 – Phoenix, AZ

California: March 6, 2023 – Sacramento, CA

Connecticut: March 22, 2023 – Hartford, CT

Pennsylvania: September 19, 2023 – Harrisburg, PA

Ohio: October 6, 2023 – Columbus, OH