Thousands march at U.S. anti-abortion rally

Thousands of anti-abortion activists marched in Washington for the annual March for Life, drawing sizeable crowds of religious groups, conservative organizations and political figures who framed the event as both a policy rally and a tribute to conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was killed last year. Organizers said the demonstration aimed to reaffirm opposition to abortion rights after recent legal and political battles; speakers urged lawmakers to pursue stricter national limits and framed abortion as a moral issue. Participants carried placards calling for protection of the unborn, led prayers and observed moments of solemn remembrance for Kirk, whose death has energized right-wing circles and was invoked as evidence of rising political violence.

President Donald Trump publicly endorsed the march, praising participants for their commitment to “life and traditional values” and stressing his role in reshaping the Supreme Court—a change that contributed to the overturning of Roe v. Wade. His remarks were welcomed by attendees, many of whom chanted his name and displayed banners linking the movement to his presidency. Organizers said honoring Kirk highlighted risks faced by outspoken activists and aimed to foster unity among conservatives.

Authorities maintained a heavy security presence, closing streets and setting up checkpoints; officials reported the event proceeded largely peacefully with no major clashes. Small groups of counter-protesters appeared nearby but were kept separate from the main demonstration.

Speakers called for further legislative action, including national restrictions on abortion and protections for medical professionals who refuse to perform abortions on religious grounds, while warning that abortion-rights advocates remain active at state and federal levels. Organizers pledged continued lobbying, voter mobilization and future demonstrations.

The march underscored abortion’s continuing potency as a mobilizing issue in U.S. politics and illustrated how the movement blends policy advocacy with cultural and emotional appeals. The prominent invocation of Trump and the commemoration of Charlie Kirk highlighted the event’s dual role as a platform for advancing conservative aims and a locus for collective mourning and political solidarity.