
President Donald Trump has fulfilled his pledge to protect pro-life activists by issuing pardons for 23 individuals prosecuted under the Biden administration’s Department of Justice. These pardons, announced Thursday, come as pro-life advocates prepare for the annual March for Life rally in Washington, D.C.
During the White House signing, Trump expressed his dismay over the prosecutions, stating, “They should not have been prosecuted. It’s ridiculous.” Many of those pardoned were convicted for their roles in demonstrations outside abortion clinics, where they sang hymns, prayed, and peacefully protested.
Among those granted clemency is 75-year-old Paulette Harlow, who was sentenced to two years in federal prison for participating in a sit-in at a clinic in Washington, D.C. Bevelyn Williams, a mother and Christian nonprofit leader, was also pardoned after receiving a lengthy sentence for her role in a protest outside a Manhattan abortion facility in 2020.
"Should not have been prosecuted"
Trump pardons 23 pro-life activists charged under the FACE Act @DailyCaller pic.twitter.com/Vk1SfHPpw6
— Nicole Silverio (@NicoleMSilverio) January 23, 2025
The Thomas More Society, a pro-life legal group that represented many of the activists, praised Trump’s decision, calling it a victory for free speech and religious liberty. The organization had submitted clemency requests for nearly two dozen activists, arguing they were unjustly punished for peacefully demonstrating.
Congratulations to @MrsBevelynW on being pardoned by President Trump!
Bev never should have been jailed! The Biden regime prosecuted her & jailed her for PRAYING outside an abortion clinic.
May this sweet woman find peace and comfort with her family. pic.twitter.com/fVrBISrLPR
— Laura Loomer (@LauraLoomer) January 24, 2025
Legislation aimed at repealing the FACE Act has been reintroduced in Congress, with lawmakers such as Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) and Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) leading the charge. They contend that the law has been selectively enforced against pro-life advocates while pro-abortion extremists have faced little scrutiny for attacks on churches and pregnancy centers.
Bevelyn Beatty Williams has just been pardoned by President Donald J. Trump. PRAISE THE LORD pic.twitter.com/AzISoDGoBr
— speaknsee (@speaknsee) January 23, 2025
In addition to the pardons, Trump reaffirmed his administration’s support for the pro-life movement and criticized the Biden administration for what he described as targeting political opponents through federal prosecution. The pardons mark a significant move in reversing what many conservatives see as government overreach and selective prosecution.
The March for Life event, taking place Friday, will likely feature speakers celebrating Trump’s decision and calling for continued efforts to protect pro-life activism in the face of legal challenges.