The 2021 UK March for Life saw around 5,000 pro-lifers from across the country come together peacefully in London at the weekend to defend the right to life of the unborn. The event, which takes place every year, attracted a lively young crowd.
Michael Robinson, SPUC Director of Communications, said: “This year’s March for Life UK saw large numbers of dedicated pro-lifers bringing the cause for the unborn to the forefront of the national consciousness.
“It was fantastic to see young people, in particular, playing such a big part in the march, proving that our message of compassion and hope is being heard and is propagating a new generation of dedicated pro-lifers.”
Moving testimonies and a cheerful parade
The event began with an indoor festival at the Emmanuel Centre in Westminster, giving a platform to pro-life organisations from across the country, including SPUC.
After games, quizzes and talks, the crowd heard hard-hitting testimonies from pro-life speakers, including a mother who reconsidered her decision to have an abortion after receiving help from The Good Counsel Network. Her son, now aged 16, who was almost aborted, stood next to her in full support of her message.
Another speaker encouraged men to speak up for life: “It was men who introduced abortion from a predominantly male parliament, so don’t be put off by the pro-abortion narrative.”
The assembled pro-lifers then took to the streets of London, marching through Trafalgar Square, where they sang and waved to members of the public, before congregating in Parliament Square outside the Houses of Parliament.
Defending the innocent
Here, Paul Swarbrick, the Catholic Bishop of Lancaster, addressed the crowd and highlighted the contradiction between the loosening of abortion restrictions during the COVID-19 lockdowns and the Government mantra of “saving lives”.
He said: “Some years ago, in the 1960s, we abolished the death penalty for the guilty. Why do we still have it for the innocent?
“You could be an inconvenience. You could be a threat to my lifestyle. You could bring me shame. You could bring me guilt…
“No, all lives matter, but some need more care than others.”
Evangelical pastor Ebow Essel also spoke at the event, stating that there was something seriously wrong with “sitting back to see, daily, the slaughter of innocent babies in the womb”.
“A huge well done”
Following the event, SPUC’s Mr. Robinson said: “A huge well done and thank you to all those who were able to travel to London at the weekend and attend this year’s event.
“It is very important to protest the injustice of abortion and stand in defence of vulnerable human beings to challenge the culture of death that pervades our society.
“Our work is not done, of course, and we must not be complacent, but this event was hugely encouraging. The future is bright.”
Similar stories
"Record turn-out" for London March for Life
“Let the Women Speak”: The voices of March for Life UK
Rain and protesters didn't damp spirits at the March for Life