Last Friday marked the annual March for Life, a gathering of folks — of all ages and from diverse walks of life who are committed to defending life. This event continues to be the largest pro-life event in the United States.
Despite the blizzard warning in our nation’s capital, thousands of men and women braved the cold to support the 43rd annual March for Life. Because that’s how important this cause is to our country.
The pro-life cause has always been very important to me. Like you, I believe that life is a precious gift from God and should be respected. I was raised with North Carolina values — including standing up for those who are unable to defend themselves.
With the birth of my son Lane, this cause is even more near and dear to my heart. I am certain that our work to support the unborn will make a difference and save innocent children.
It’s important to note that the March for Life marks the somber anniversary of a very tragic event in our nation’s history — a devastating Supreme Court decision that has led to the death of more than 57 million innocent children. Roe v. Wade cast aside the ideals our nation is built on — that all people are created equal, and that we are endowed by our Creator with the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
This decision denied these rights from innocent children in the womb. It has been 43 years since Roe v. Wade, and I continue to believe the Supreme Court’s decision is morally wrong and should be overturned.
While I’m proud that we’ve had one of the most productive pro-life years in Congress, I know there is still so much more that needs to be done. This March for Life is happening at a time when too many in our country are turning a blind eye to the callousness by which Planned Parenthood is possibly harvesting and trafficking baby body parts. That’s why I will keep working to investigate and defund Planned Parenthood.
In fact, I will vote this week to override the president’s veto of legislation that places a moratorium on funding for Planned Parenthood while redirecting those funds to community health centers.
Some women who face an unplanned pregnancy may be facing a crisis and deserve our compassion and support, which is why I advocate for methods of protecting life such as encouraging adoption and boosting resources like pregnancy centers. Additionally, I will always support measures that ensure our hard-earned taxpayer dollars are not used to finance abortions. I am committed to defending the most vulnerable among us and fighting for the millions of children who were not given their God-given right to life.
As a country, we have a moral obligation to be a voice for those who are not given the opportunity to speak. Life begins at conception and ends with natural death, which means it is our responsibility to care for each and every life.
As long as I am your elected representative, it will be a priority of mine to fight to protect life, end the cruel practice of abortion and stand up for our pro-family values.
Rep. Richard Hudson, R-Concord, represents North Carolina’s 8th Congressional District, which includes Anson County.