Webster’s Dictionary defines abortion as the termination of a pregnancy, but my fellow Catholics and I agree that it is much worse. To me, abortion is the murder of a living child who will now never have a chance to live the life gifted to them by God. Not only is this a very important moral issue, but nowadays, it’s political too. In my home state of Maryland, voters just approved an amendment to the state’s constitution to further legalize abortions. Unethical laws like this can make children feel powerless. Personally, I’m tired of thinking there is no hope of stopping things like this. There are plenty of ways to influence others’ views on this topic, even if one is too young to vote. 

One way young people can influence abortion laws is through persistent prayer. This is a major theme throughout the Bible that can often be applied to our own lives. “... The fervent prayer of a righteous person is very powerful.” (James 5:16) “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus"(1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) "Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere" (Ephesians 6:18). “Do not be anxious about anything but to pray about everything" (Philippians 4:6). Verses like these tell us that if we pray for something enough, our prayers will not be ignored. Through prayer, young people can still influence an election and the culture in favor of pro-life values. 

There are also more physical ways to affect the election. My 16-year-old brother Luke, for example, is too young to vote. Still, he worked to encourage voters to vote pro-life by volunteering his time and handing out pro-life educational materials at an early voting site. As I write this essay, he is talking to voters about pro-life values and candidates. Even if an opportunity like this isn’t available to young people, they can still speak to their parents or other trusted adults about voting pro-life. Some people may think that such a small thing could not have any effect, but every vote matters. Even if young people do not yet have a vote, they still have a voice. 

Also, growing up in a pro-life family, I have attended the annual March for Life for nearly my whole life. It is a gathering every January where like-minded individuals march through the streets of D.C. for the rights of unborn children. My siblings and I have participated in this event since I was in kindergarten. We all gather at the National Mall and listen to pro-life speeches. Then we march about two miles. Anyone is able to participate, no matter their age, and it is a perfect platform for young people to share their faith and to advocate for the unborn. 

I think all pro-life children should be given a chance to speak up for their views. This is why outlets like these should be made known to all young people. Sharing your values is important, especially for young people. Speaking to others about the value of all human life at all stages can help promote better understanding. It is especially important to share your opinions on abortion because innocent human life is at stake. Hopefully young people can play a part in an end to abortion, and hopefully, it will be soon.