SW News: Thousands of defenders of the sanctity of life took part in the pro-life rally in the US state of Pennsylvania on Monday, September 19. Hundreds thronged the streets for the second March for Life rally to defend the right to life from conception to natural death.
Following the reversal of Roe v Wade removing the constitutionality of abortions across the US, it is for the first time that the largest pro-life march is being held in the country. The event was organized by the March for Life and Harrisburg-based Pennsylvania Family Institute.
The event started with a rally at the Harrisburg Capitol building, followed by a march around the building. Jeanne Mancini, President of March for Life, stated, "The people of Pennsylvania and the state legislature will surely witness the devotion and love that motivate their pro-life constituents and the state's enthusiasm for a post-Roe America."
Many of the participants decried the pro-choice decisions of State Governor Tom Wolf. Decrying the same, the pro-life advocates joined in prayers for him. The governor has vetoed legislation that intends to restrict abortion in the state.
Speakers of the event included Archbishop of Philadelphia Nelson J. Pérez, Mancini, Ann McElhinney, the producer and co-writer of the film "Gosnell: The Trial of America's Biggest Serial Killer"; state Senate Majority Leader Kim Ward, state House Speaker Bryan Cutler and many more.
Meanwhile, when the pro-life supporters gathered outside the Capitol building, the House Democrats held a press conference inside the building to propose various reproductive rights bills, stating abortion is a part of women's health care.
Abortions are currently legal in Pennsylvania until 24 weeks of gestation. The US Supreme Court has overturned Roe v Wade, which legalized abortions across the country. However, the State of Pennsylvania has come up with more pro-abortion legislation.