“Our continuing to march that day was not stubbornness to defy the elements, but willingness to cope as best we could in our determined efforts to defend the unalienable and paramount right to life of our born and preborn brothers and sisters.” – Nellie Gray, founder of March for Life.

Nellie made that profound statement in the winter of 1987, after a particularly cold and blustery March for Life rally in the nation’s capital. Twenty-nine years later, marchers once again defied the elements to advocate for the lives of the unborn.

Each and every year, I am impressed by the Missourians that travel night and day to Washington, D.C., and usually not in ideal weather, just so they can participate in the March for Life rally. In addition, it is incredibly gratifying to see so many young individuals make the effort to ensure their voices are heard in the nation’s capital on this important issue. Because in their hearts, they know the most precious gift in the world is the gift of life.

It is because of the will and determination of so many Americans that attend the March for Life that the House of Representatives will hold a vote to override the president’s veto of legislation to defund Planned Parenthood. This year’s rally is especially important after Americans learned that Planned Parenthood employees were engaged in the sale of the dismembered body parts of infants.

In addition to efforts in defunding Planned Parenthood, the House took action and passed the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act. This legislation would prohibit federal funds from being used for any abortion procedure. It would also prohibit tax credits and cost-sharing subsidies authorized under the president’s health-care law from being used to pay for plans that include elective abortion coverage.

It is my hope the Senate votes on that legislation soon. In the meantime, the House will continue to debate bills that defend the life of the unborn.

There are countless Americans around the country that take their precious time, year after year, to defend the unborn and also to celebrate life. It is incredibly important to thank the individuals for inspiration and support that is provided to me. Together, we are the voice for those who do not yet have one.

Please know that I will remain steadfast to ensuring pro-life legislation is considered in the House of Representatives.