The man expressed his astonishment at the sight of a woman running with a baby. We were observing a charity run for a local pregnancy resource centre from a position at the periphery.
One of the most striking aspects of this annual event is the sheer beauty of the sights on display, which serve to raise much-needed funds for a facility that is a beacon of life and hope in our community.
While some participants engage in physical activity, even with a baby in tow, others opt for a more passive form of expression, walking to demonstrate solidarity with pregnant women and their families. The event is a joyous spectacle, marked by music, food, a bouncy castle and a carousel. The September event is a microcosm of the idealised concept of heaven on earth.
Pregnancy resource centres perform a multitude of functions beyond the mere distribution of essential items such as diapers and formula to families in need. They offer comprehensive counselling and support to women facing the most challenging circumstances.
Although the 5K walk/run was a considerable success, Morning Star Pregnancy Services also requires financial support from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, as managed by Real Alternatives. It is regrettable that Governor Josh Shapiro, a Democrat who supports abortion rights, has threatened to terminate the contract of Real Alternatives. (To date, he has not provided a written rationale to the officials of Real Alternatives.)
This unfeeling decision would eliminate the safety net for thousands of women across Pennsylvania. It is widely speculated that the Governor plans to redirect the $8.2 million that would have been allocated to Real Alternatives to an organization that performs abortions. This is an abominable decision.
It is incumbent upon us to convey to the Shapiro Administration our support for Real Alternatives and our desire for its continued funding. To convey an immediate message to Pennsylvania lawmakers requesting the continuation of Real Alternatives funding, please visit www.paprolife.org.
It is indeed possible for women to pursue their aspirations while also caring for their infants. However, they require assistance to achieve this goal. In the interest of both babies and their mothers, it is imperative that we provide assistance to Real Alternatives.
Daniel Miller is responsible for nearly all of National Right to Life News' political writing.
With the election of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency, Daniel Miller developed a deep obsession with U.S. politics that has never let go of the political scientist. Whether it's the election of Joe Biden, the midterm elections in Congress, the abortion rights debate in the Supreme Court or the mudslinging in the primaries - Daniel Miller is happy to stay up late for you.
Daniel was born and raised in New York. After living in China, working for a news agency and another stint at a major news network, he now lives in Arizona with his two daughters.
