On Wednesday, April 17th, a group of zealous Montini Catholic activists traveled to Springfield, Illinois to join other pro-life enthusiasts at the March for Life. The group of young Broncos were proud to join thousands to remember those who have been lost to abortion and fight for those who have yet to be born.

This year's National March for Life (in its 51st year) was held on Friday, January 19th in Washington D.C. with the theme, 'Together We Gather to Celebrate Life.' In addition, March for Life works with local partners to offer state capital March for Life events across the country. The Illinois event was co-sponsored by Illinois Right for Life.

Montini Catholic students, accompanied by Campus Minister Michael Blanchette, set off for Springfield early Wednesday morning and returned after the march that same day. "It is a long journey back and forth, but I hope our kids realize that it is well worth the trip to make your voice 'seen' and heard," he said. "Marches are also a great way to meet people of similar beliefs. Sometimes you think you're alone in your values, but when you see many others holding up signs and defending life, it renews the spirit."

Freshman, Molly Felice, was among the students traveling to Springfield. "I think that abortion is a great injustice and I wanted to do what I could to speak out against it," she said, "I was happy to see that others recognized that abortion is wrong and were standing up against it. Together, we can help stop abortion."

Junior Henry Dawson agrees. "It was a long trip, but I feel good that I was there to speak of for life. It is hard to believe that everyone doesn't agree with me when it comes to the value of life, but it was great to be able to walk alongside so many others in Springfield."

Mr. Blanchette is planning a trip to the Washington D.C. March for Life next year and hopes to provide the opportunity for many Montini Broncos to share their values on the importance of life at our nation's capital.

Image above:  l to r:  Molly Felice '27, Brianna Konopacz '27, Zander Montgomery '24, Henry Dawson '25, Payton Cullum '24, Julian D'Anca '25 and Jimmy Fitzpatrick '25 in front of the State Capitol in Springfield, IL