National Sanctity of Human Life Day is an observance declared by several United States Presidents who opposed abortion typically proclaimed on or near the anniversary of the Supreme Court’s decision in Roe v. Wade. This day is also known as Pro-Life Day.
National Sanctity of Human Life Day
We cannot deminish the value of one category of human life – the unburn – without diminishing the value of all human life.
President Ronald Reagan
President Ronald Reagan issued a presidential proclamation on January 13, 1984, designating Sunday, January 22, 1984, as National Sanctity of Human Life Day, noting that it was the 11th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, in which the Supreme Court issued a ruling that guaranteed women access to abortion. President Reagan was a strong pro-life advocate who said that in Roe v. Wade the Supreme Court “Truck down our laws protecting the lives of unborn children” He continued declare a proclamation annually there after.
President Barack Obama never issued a National Sanctity of Human Life proclamation during his presidency.
Every person — the born and unborn, the poor, the downcast, the disabled, the infirm, and the elderly — has inherent value. Although each journey is different, no life is without worth or is inconsequential; the rights of all people must be defended. On National Sanctity of Human Life Day, our Nation proudly and strongly reaffirms our commitment to protect the precious gift of life at every stage, from conception to natural death.
President Donald Trump – Start of the 2020 Proclamation
However, President Donald Trump did issue a proclamation declaring January 22, 2018, to be National Sanctity of Human Life Day. In 2019, I believe I saw he set it for January 20, 2019. HE set it again on January 22, 2020 and for 2021.
Every human life is a gift to the world. Whether born or unborn, young or old, healthy or sick, every person is made in the holy image of God. The Almighty Creator gives unique talents, beautiful dreams, and a great purpose to every person. On National Sanctity of Human Life Day, we celebrate the wonder of human existence and renew our resolve to build a culture of life where every person of every age is protected, valued, and cherished.
President Donald Trump – Start of the 2021 Proclamation – His last proclamation of his term
So this day is held annually on January 22.
O GOD our Creator, we give thanks to thee, who alone hast the power to impart the breath of life as thou dost form each of us in our mother’s womb: grant, we pray; that we, whom thou hast made stewards of creation, may remain faithful to this sacred trust and constant in safeguarding the dignity of every human life; through Jesus Christ thy Son our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, ever one God, world without end. Amen
Divine Worship: The Missal (Translated into English)
First published January 2019. Last updated or republished January 20, 2021.
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