More than a dozen Portsmouth Abbey School students and chaperones attended the March for Life in Washington, D.C., from January 26-28. Portsmouth Abbey Spiritual Life Associate and Christian Doctrine teacher John Huynh organized the trip and served as faculty advisor, and our 2017 Manquehue visitors accompanied the group as well. For many, it was a first trip to Washington, D.C. "The event afforded them the opportunity to provide the unborn with a voice, become more educated about our nation's capital, and to have fun," said John.
Several students who attended shared their impressions about the trip and how it affected their lives and out look:
"It's impossible to feel hopeless or scared when you're surrounded by thousands of people, cheering and praying and marching, not because abortion is evil but because life is so beautiful, and so precious. Standing in that crowd, clutching my sign, I shuddered when I remembered how close I had come to backing out, to making some excuse and staying home. Life is precious, not only for the unborn but also for the living. And as long as we have our voices, we should use them for 'those who cannot speak.' " – Diane McDonough '19
"The March for Life was truly a life-changing experience. Watching the hundreds of thousands of people marching for life makes you feel like you are part of something. It came to my surprise to see so many people of my age there, marching with enthusiasm and pride. It was inspiring and empowering. If anyone has the opportunity to do this trip, he should definitely give it a chance; you won't regret a single moment." –Mauricio Gojon '20
"After attending the 2017 March for Life, my view of the world has changed completely. It was when we took our seats after the concert finished when I began to realize how fortunate I was to be on that trip. In my life I have been given so many gifts and it was in that stadium seat that I began truly appreciating them. The gift of life is so amazing and should be cherished by all. Every life is purposeful and should be valued. The March for Life is an amazing experience that fights for the most meaningful experience; life itself." – Jamarya Jackson '20
"Overall, I had a fun time considering it was my first time being in something so big and knowing that I'm helping to make a difference. I enjoyed the march itself due to the fact that so many people near my age were there to support the same ideals as me, paying no mind to the haters on the sides of the streets." – Khalem Gregory '19
John concluded, "It was truly an opportunity for all to witness the power of a peaceful demonstration."
Top: The Abbey group in Washington, D.C., with the Capitol Building in the background
Middle: Abbey students choose their signage and join the march
Bottom: There was ample time for the group to have fun and enjoy the nation's capitol
Photos by John Huynh