Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

Approximately 500 people attended the Nebraska Right to Life’s Walk for Life Gala on January 26th at the Cornhusker Marriott Hotel in Lincoln. The event featured updates from pro-life and political leaders, as well as an inspiring message from a woman who survived an abortion.

During his remarks at the gala, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts emphasized Nebraska's pro-life stance and called on pro-life supporters to unite in the fight against efforts to place a right to abortion in the state's constitution. He stated, "Nebraska is what America is supposed to be. We have a role to lead the nation on this issue."

Nebraska Right to Life Executive Director Sandy Danek also addressed the attendees, highlighting the significance of 2024 as a pivotal year for the state. She urged voters to carefully examine a proposed amendment that could potentially eliminate protective laws already in place. Danek emphasized the importance of understanding the truth behind the measure, stating, "You've got to read between the lines. You've got to know the truth."

The keynote speaker for the evening was Melissa Ohden, an abortion survivor and founder of the Abortion Survivors Network. Ohden shared her remarkable story of being accidentally born alive and the challenges she faced in her journey. She used her own experience to encourage pro-life supporters in their fight against the effort to enshrine a right to abortion in the state constitution. Ohden said, "When the battle seems hard and you are giving it your all, I want you to have hope... Just know you are not fighting alone."

The Walk for Life Gala also honored individuals who have made significant contributions to the pro-life movement. Shirley Lang, a longtime Nebraska Right to Life volunteer, received the Light for Life Award. Pro-life State Senator Joni Albrecht was presented with the Julie Schmidt-Albin Leadership Award.

A panel of pro-life experts, including Bud Synhorst of Nebraska Right to Life, Dr. Elana Kraus, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, and Jason Kirsh of the Nebraska Christian Leaders Forum, answered questions about current efforts to restrict abortion. The panel provided valuable insights and perspectives on the issue.

Father Timothy Danek, pastor of St. Joseph Church in Auburn, served as the emcee for the night, guiding the audience through the program. The Walk for Life Gala was held in conjunction with the annual pro-life Mass at St. Mary Church and the Walk for Life from the State Capitol to the student union on the campus of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

The Walk for Life Gala provided a platform for pro-life and political leaders to share updates and messages of hope with attendees. The event showcased the dedication and commitment of Nebraska's pro-life community in the fight against abortion. With inspiring stories and passionate speeches, the gala served as a rallying point for supporters to continue their efforts to protect the sanctity of life in the state of Nebraska.