Nationwide Rallies Energize Pro-Lifers for Challenges Ahead In 2004.

The American pro-life grassroots came out in force in January to commemorate the 31st anniversary of legal abortion. Thousands rallied in cities and towns to demand that the unborn be protected in law and respected in our hearts.

The recently elected governor of Kentucky joined pro-lifers in his state. Gov. Ernie Fletcher spoke to the crowd in Frankfort January 28, endorsing a proposed state law that would consider an unborn baby the second victim of a crime. "If a life is taken ... justice cries out that there be some accounting for that," Fletcher said at the rally.

Rhode Island Gov. Donald and First Lady Sue Carcieri addressed hundreds of pro-lifers in the State House Rotunda in Providence January 22. "Scientifically speaking, the unborn child is just as human as you and me," said Mrs. Carcieri. "They can't protest, so someone's got to protest for them."

The First Lady of Georgia, Mary Perdue, participated in a rally in Atlanta January 22. Mrs. Perdue, who has been a foster mother, encouraged the thousands of pro-lifers to educate the public about alternatives to abortion.

Nebraska Gov. Mike Johanns joined over 3,000 pro-lifers January 17 as they walked through the streets of Lincoln. On the capitol steps, Gov. Johanns reaffirmed his commitment to the unborn, shouting, "I am pro-life!" Speakers also stressed the importance of a proposed state bill that would ban all human cloning.

Speakers at the annual right-to-life gathering in Raleigh, North Carolina, January 17 urged the hundreds of participants to support pro-life politicians. "You are critical in this next election," Rep. Walter Jones said to the crowd.

Arkansas pro-lifers were also encouraged to be active participants. "This is an election year, and not only your vote but your advocacy matters," Gov. Mike Huckabee of Arkansas told thousands of pro-lifers gathered January 18 in Little Rock. Participants marched 13 blocks to the steps of the state capitol.