Tens of thousands gathered in Washington for the March for Life on Friday. President Donald Trump pledged to support anti-abortion protesters in his second term.
“We will again stand proudly for families and for life,” Trump stated in a pre-recorded message.
For decades, protesters have marched to demand the repeal of Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion. Since its repeal in 2022, however, their focus has shifted toward pushing for further action. With Trump now in office again and Republicans in control of Congress, activists aim to build on their past successes.
Trump’s Pro-Life Commitment
Vice President JD Vance emphasized that the country is experiencing “the return of the most pro-family, most pro-life American president of our lifetimes.” He praised Trump for fulfilling his promise to end Roe v. Wade by appointing anti-abortion judges to the courts.
Although Trump’s early days in office saw little action on abortion, he did take some key steps. For example, he enforced the Hyde Amendment, which limits federal funding for most abortions. Additionally, he reinstated a rule requiring foreign NGOs to declare that they do not promote abortion if they accept U.S. funds.
Activists’ Enthusiasm
Despite the cold weather, the event had a lively atmosphere. Activists wore bright hats and carried signs with messages like “Life is our revolution” and “MAGA: Make Abortion Gone Again.” Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, called this march “special” due to the unified pro-life leadership in the White House and Congress.
Kristen Cooper, 21, was excited about her fourth march. However, this year was particularly special for her since it was the first with a Republican administration in power. “It’s surreal, actually,” she said.
Anna Henderson, a teacher from Michigan, attended with her students. She emphasized that just because the administration backs the cause, the fight isn’t over. “We still need to change people’s hearts,” she noted.
Kristan Hawkins, president of Students for Life of America, pointed out that there is still more work to be done. She urged Trump to defund Planned Parenthood and provide paid family leave to women with unplanned pregnancies.
Ongoing Abortion Debate
The abortion debate continues, particularly in state courts and at the ballot box. In November, voters in seven states approved constitutional amendments protecting abortion rights. However, some state legislatures are working to make it more difficult to pass such measures.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis celebrated the defeat of an abortion rights amendment in his state in 2024. While voters had supported overturning a six-week abortion ban, Florida requires a 60% threshold to pass constitutional amendments.
Opposition Voices
Meanwhile, abortion rights supporters continue to speak out. Ryan Stitzlein from Reproductive Freedom for All criticized the ongoing attacks on abortion access. Additionally, Ellie Smeal, president of the Feminist Majority Foundation, announced plans for a counterprotest. She emphasized the widespread support for abortion rights and the importance of ensuring that individuals can make their own reproductive health decisions.
