What is the March for Life?
The March for Life began in Washington, D.C., as a small demonstration and rapidly grew to be the largest pro-life event in the world. The peaceful demonstration that has followed on the somber anniversary of Roe V. Wade every year since 1973 is a witness to the truth concerning the greatest human rights violation of our time, legalized abortion on demand.
Where and when is the March for Life?
The March for Life official program will be held on Wednesday, January 22, 2015 on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. beginning at 14th St. The program begins with a rally at 12 noon, and a time of musical reflection at 11:30. There will be jumbo-trons for easier viewing.
The march begins immediately following the rally at approximately 1 pm and proceeds from the National Mall, makes a right on Constitution Avenue, makes a right on 1st St. NE, and ends in front of the U.S. Supreme Court. We then encourage you to visit your congressmen in the House and Senate office buildings.
How do I begin to plan a March for Life trip?
It is never too early to start planning! The earlier you begin planning, the better rates you can get on buses and hotel rooms, and the more time you have to fundraise for your trip. The earlier you plan, the more time you have to get the word out about your March for Life trip to family, friends and members of your local pro-life group or church.
Before you can begin planning any other aspect of the March for Life, it is important to set your schedule. Some groups come to Washington, D.C. for a day. They arrive the day of the March for Life, participate in the March, meet with their elected representatives and drive home that same evening. This keeps costs low, as you would not need to pay for hotel rooms and other added expenses.
Other groups make their trip to Washington, D.C. last several days. The March for Life Convention is the day before the March for Life and features, the Youth Rally, the Exhibition Hall, the Law of Life Conference, Capitol Hill 101, and the Culture of Life panels. Once you finalize your schedule, you can begin making hotel reservations and other travel arrangements.
When should I book a bus?
Book a bus as early as possible, many bus companies fill up months before the March for Life. If you are worried about not being able to fill a bus, consider partnering with other groups in your area, such as neighboring schools, churches or local Right to Life groups. Your bus company should take care of obtaining a bus permit, but you may want to confirm with them. More information on bus permits can be found HERE.
Where can I find reasonably priced hotels for my group?
The March for Life has reserved a limited number of rooms at the Downtown DC Renaissance. The rate for groups is $184.00/room plus tax. You can find information about the DC Renaissance and additional hotels HERE.
Where should the buses drop us off?
Buses should park at RFK Stadium. Marchers can then ride the Metro from the Stadium-Armoy Metro stop to the National Mall. Additional information on riding the metro and purchasing fare cards can be found HERE.
The March is over, now what?
Before you leave Washington, we strongly encourage you to visit your elected officials and advocate for Life! When you go home, get involved! Don’t make the March for Life a once a year event, but work every day to protect the unborn.
Additional Helpful Information:
· Portable restroom facilities are available on the Mall, and public restroom facilities are available in the Smithsonian museums.
· First Aid stations will be located at various points on the Mall surrounding the rally.
· To enter the House and Senate buildings, visitors must go through security. For a list of prohibited items in the Capitol Visitor Center click HERE.