March for Life protests the “Roe v. Wade” Supreme Court decision which mandated that states legalize abortion.
Vice President Mike Pence became the first sitting vice president to address the march in person last year. George W. Bush addressed the group by phone in 2008 and Ronald Reagan did the same in 1987.
“The president is committed to protecting the life of the unborn and he is excited to be part of this historic event,” White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said.
Trump will address the march via a live satellite feed from the Rose Garden accompanied by young March for Life participants and the organization’s chairman, Patrick Kelly.
The Rose Garden holds great symbolism for the group, which regularly delivered roses to members of Congress during the annual marches. The red rose has symbolized childbirth since the 16th century and also represents mourning.
Trump has taken several steps to curb abortion since taking office. He re-enacted the Reagan era “Mexico City” policy during his first week in office. The policy prohibits non-governmental organizations that perform abortions or promote abortion from receiving government funds.
Trump also promised to sign legislation to put a limit on how late a pregnancy can be aborted and vowed to defund Planned Parenthood, the largest abortion provider in the United States. The president appointed a battery of pro-life judges that can impact the legal position on abortion even after he leaves office.
“He has been great on pro-life public policy,” March for Life’s president, Jeanne Mancini, told Politico. “He doesn’t lack courage. He’s been leaning into this issue in a way that’s refreshing.”
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