Remembering Roe 2026

It feels weird to be writing this note in the days leading up to January 22nd and not making last minute adjustments for the Roe Remembrance, which we made the decision not to host this year. A number of considerations went into that decision, ranging from an increase in the number traveling to D.C., cost increases for the applicable Statehouse permits, and the scheduling of ancillary events. With Dobbs, the October Ohio March for Life, and now the oppressive language of “Issue 1” (passed on 11-7-23), it seemed prudent to reimagine our efforts. I would love to hear your feedback and ideas, and as we work to bring onboard a new Executive Director, we will be sure to include them in the planning process.

It is not the first time the program has changed. In years past, it was an actual March – sponsored by big name box stores and covered by the local news stations. When I took over, it had become the “Roe Rally” – held outdoors, irrespective of the weather. When school policies adjusted and Statehouse event guidelines updated, we made the decision to move it indoors and rename it the Roe Remembrance (“rallies” being prohibited inside). In each instance, it was intended to be an alternative for those who could not be in DC for the March, but held simultaneously in solidarity and prayer. A few years ago, the National March for Life shifted so that it was not specifically on the 22nd, but on a constant Friday to encourage youth participation and advocacy, but we continued to observe the 22nd. (Note – for great coverage of the National March for Life, including links to schedules and how to livestream it and related events, this piece has been very helpful).

So, while this feels strange, it is less a seismic disruption and more a sign that our strategies and events will continue to adjust because we remain focused on our mission: advancing the dignity of innocent human life from conception until natural death, and our vision to see an end to abortion in Central Ohio by 2033.

Tomorrow, our team will still be Remembering Roe. I’ll be stopping by the Statehouse for the Catholic Conference’s invitation to Eucharistic Adoration (from 10-2pm), and I’ll be talking to at least one legislative leader about some priorities. We’ll be working with some amazing volunteers in the office to get out some communications, and we will be focusing on upcoming events: an educational event on the abortion pill, one on threats at the end of life, 40 Days for Life, two upcoming advocacy trainings, and our annual banquet. We already have a handful of churches who have adopted a day or partial day for 40 Days. On my way home, I plan to stop for Mass to pray for all those killed, wounded, or touched by abortion and for those traveling to DC. On Friday, I’ll tune in to EWTN and St. Gabriel Radio to watch and listen live. I’m especially looking forward to hearing Ohio’s JD Vance speak, fresh on the news that his wife and he are expecting a baby in July. Admittedly, I'm a little extra excited – not just because I remember when VP Vance was just one of us young Statehouse staffers, but because I find myself equally torn between hoping for an Independence Day baby and one born on the 7th of July (incidentally, my own birthday). More importantly, it sounds as though this may be the first time there has been a pregnancy and a newborn to the Second Family, ever. It is not only an historic event and a subtle witness to the miracle of Life to the whole world, but because babies have a way of bringing us together to focus on what is most important – something that is sorely needed in these tumultuous political times.

While we are not holding the Roe Remembrance, know that on January 22nd, and every day, we are Remembering Roe. Because Life is a Gift.