The vision behind the March for Life that takes place in Washington, D.C. is noble:  to bring about “a world where every human life is valued and protected.” Sixteen Mount Carmel students attended this year’s march, accompanied Mr. Patrick McGarry, Mr. Antonio Mota, and Mr. Michael Hansen, father of our late faculty member Kevin Hansen.

Given the recent political tension in America, one participant, senior Branimir Ilic, was apprehensive about how the weekend in D.C. might unfold.  But once he found himself in the middle of thousands of other students marching for a common cause, his fears faded away. “It was an incredible experience to witness and partake in.”

For the MC group and other students from across the county, the event began with Mass at the Verizon Center, followed by a rally, before marching up Constitution Avenue to the Supreme Court and Capitol Building.

Once there, speakers from many different walks of life addressed the marchers, including Kellyanne Conway, senior counselor for the President Trump, and Benjamin Watson, tight end for the Baltimore Ravens.

Many religious leaders also spoke, including the Archbishop of New York City, Timothy Cardinal Dolan, who reminded all that “As we are heartened by His holy word, as we are nourished by the bread of angels . . .we are sent out in confidence for our pro-life testimony . . . ” (goo.gl/DreXWq)

Over the years, participants in the march have met counter-protestors in the streets of D.C.   In preparing students for this year’s event, the official website made it clear that it was not their place to engage with counter demonstrators. “Please be respectful of all people and stay focused on the cause of promoting and celebrating life, lovingly, prayerfully, and graciously.” (goo.gl/RnD74q)

Juniors Marty Spring and Bryce Pezel appreciated the opportunity to give witness  to the value of each human life, and also the chance to do some sightseeing while in D.C. “It was really cool seeing the Washington Monument up close and then going to march.”