Sign holders line Beretania St. in front of the state Capitol Jan. 25 for the annual Mach for Life. (HCH photo | Patrick Downes)
State Rep. Robert McDermott speaks to the crowd at the March for Life at the state Capitol, Jan. 25. (HCH photo | Patrick Downes)
Oahu’s annual March for Life marking the anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade decision drew about 400 people to the state Capitol on the clear Saturday afternoon of Jan. 25 to hold signs, listen to moving speeches, enjoy live music and, for the more adventurous, get their faces painted with baby “footprints” in remembrance of unborn children killed by abortion.
Young sign holders lined Beretania Street fronting the Capitol waving and cheering at the passing cars many of whom responded with affirming honks.
The activities, which went from noon to 5 p.m., were centered around the statue of St. Damien on the mauka side of the capitol buildings. Information tables for the event sponsor, Hawaii Life Advocates, and other groups lined the sides. Most of the participants stood around in groups or sat in the section of chairs facing the stage.
The Catholic Church was represented by vicar general Father Gary Secor, parish groups like the one from Resurrection Church in Waipio in matching maroon T-shirts, the Knights of Columbus and members of religious orders.
Testimonials were given by Camille Adams, Mei Elizabeth Luichan and musician and singer Cynthia Milles who told the story of how youthful circumstances and a former “boy friend” pushed her to have an abortion 37 years ago. She credited the Rachel’s Vineyard post-abortion ministry for helping her find emotional and spiritual healing.
Providing music was Milles, recording artist Shanita Akana and others.
The keynote speaker was Marianist Father John Thompson. Giving a political point of view on the right to life battle was State Rep. Robert McDermott.
The centerpiece of the rally was the march at 3 p.m. around the state Capitol block.
