By Alexander Rodriguez, Editor in Chief
Rise and shine! – Photo by John Petty
Aquinas College students participated in the National March for Life in Washington D.C., paid for by the Catholic Studies Department, alongside Protect Life Michigan, a Michigan based pro life organization.
At 9 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 22, the students departed from Aquinas arriving in Arlington, Va., around midnight of Friday Jan. 23. Later in the day the students boarded the Metro and explored the National Museum of Natural History before attending the rally.
Metro escalator – Photo by John Petty
Following the demonstration, Aquinas students along with thousands of pro-lifers from across the country began their march towards the Capitol building. Students and others participated by carrying signs and walking unified between multiple organizations, religious orders, and congregations.
Marching to the Capitol building – Photo by John Petty
Pro-life Dominicans – Photo by John Petty
“I decided to come to support the pro-life movement and be a voice for the voiceless,” freshman Alaina Jaye said.
Several well-known figures within the Catholic pro-life movement were present, including Fransican Friar of the Renewal Fr. Fidelis Moscinski, C.F.R., who is known for his advocacy for the unborn. The organization, Tradition, Family and Property, focused on defending Catholic moral teachings also had a visible presence throughout the event.
Fr. Fidelis Moscinski, C.F.R. – Photo by John Petty
TFP “America Needs Fatima” sign – Photo by John Petty
TFP Student Action Volunteer – Photo by John Petty
“I came to grow in leadership, standing up for human beings who can’t stand up for themselves,” freshman Isaac Dziuban said.
Due to an incoming snowstorm, Protect Life Michigan buses departed a day earlier than planned. Despite the schedule changes, students spent Saturday morning and afternoon visiting sites around the city, including the Shrine of St. John Paul II and Arlington National Cemetery where they attended the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Changing of the Guard Ceremony, Arlington National Cemetery – Photo by John Petty
“I had finally convinced myself that my faith needed to be put into action,” said freshman Justin Cabrera, vice president of Protect Life at Wayne State University. “It is our duty as Catholics to stand up for those who are unprotected and fight for our beliefs. It’s a decision I will never regret, and I plan to come again for years to come.
Despite the early departure, students were able to experience the nation’s capital while participating in an event focused on advocating for those who cannot speak for themselves.
The Saint 