On Feb. 28, pro-life Minnesotans from across the state will gather at the State Capitol for the first-ever “United for Life” advocacy day — an opportunity to show support for policies that protect the unborn and assist mothers.
The event is a joint effort between the Minnesota Catholic Conference, Minnesota Family Council, Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life, The Pro-Life Center at the University of St. Thomas, and Pro-Life Action Ministries.
“Now, more than ever, we want to share a strong, united pro-life message with our legislators. Marches for Life are important, but we need to also interact with the people who make our laws and share our viewpoint,” said Maggee Hangge, policy and public relations associate for the Minnesota Catholic Conference, in an email to The Central Minnesota Catholic.
United for Life will feature a rally in the Capitol Rotunda at 10 a.m. Then, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., participants will be able to meet with their district legislators. The day also includes educational opportunities, connecting with various pro-life organizations from around the state, a prayer room and a diaper drive.
Hangge said the most important part of the day is the legislative meetings, which will be 15 minutes each.
“We are here to find common ground with legislators but also to express our pro-life views and concerns with some of the bills being pushed. We hope to send a message to legislators that the pro-life movement in Minnesota is not backing down,” she said.
Hangge also said it is important for state legislators “to hear from us about how the laws should be written” in light of the overturning of Roe v. Wade in June, which returned abortion policy decisions to each state.
Hangge encouraged everyone to attend, no matter one’s religious or political affiliation.
“It is important to showcase the breadth of the pro-life movement in our state,” she said.
Hangge said the goal of United for Life is to not only inspire pro-life Minnesotans to fight for life, but also to leave “attendees feeling equipped to continue their conversations with their family, friends, and legislators.”
“Our advocacy does not end on Feb. 28. We need to continue fostering relationships and getting the pro-life message out,” she said.
“Together, we will care for women, children, and families by inspiring legislators to fight for the fundamental rights of all human beings, from conception to natural death. By walking with mothers and children in need, and encouraging our legislators to do the same, we can make Minnesota the best place to welcome a child in need.”
The event will be held a month after Gov. Tim Walz signed into law a bill, passed by Minnesota lawmakers, that places a right to abortion for any reason and without a limit on viability into state law.
Want to attend?
Visit https://stcdio.org/event/united-for-life-minnesotas-pro-life-advocacy-day for more information and to register. The event is free, but advanced registration is required so organizers can set up legislative meetings based on attendees’ districts. Buses to the Capitol will be provided. The deadline to register for the bus is Feb. 21 at 3 p.m. See the link above to register.
If you are not taking a diocesan bus, you can register on United for Life’s website (https://unitedforlifemn.org).
Dress for cold weather and bring a bag lunch and beverage or money to buy lunch at the Capitol.
Don’t forget to bring new or opened diaper packages, wipes and monetary donations for the diaper drive. All donations will go to Diaper Bank of MN.
United for Life schedule
• 9 a.m. – Registration and sign-in begins
• 10 a.m. – Opening rally
• 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. – Legislative meetings, educational opportunities, viewing table displays of pro-life organizations, and time to get lunch
• 1:30 p.m. – Closing program/remarks
Sponsors
Want to sponsor United for Life? Visit https://bit.ly/3I1xri8 for more information on how your business or organization can become a sponsor.