Pope Leo: “The Right to Life is the Foundation of Every Other Human Right”
Pope Leo XIV sent a strong message of support to participants in the 2026 March for Life, declaring that the protection of the right to life forms the essential foundation for all other human rights and urging continued efforts to build a society that safeguards the sanctity of human life at every stage.
In a message from the Vatican and released ahead of the annual pro-life rally in the nation’s capital, the pontiff — the first American-born pope — expressed warm greetings and spiritual closeness to the marchers.
He quoted his own recent address to the diplomatic corps on January 9, stating that “the protection of the right to life constitutes the indispensable foundation of every other human right.”
He framed the march as a peaceful, courageous witness on behalf of unborn children, invoking Jesus’ promise to be with his followers always (Matthew 28:20) and his command to serve the least of his brothers and sisters (Matthew 25:31-46).
The message comes as the March for Life, now in its 53rd year since the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision, continues to draw hundreds of thousands to Washington each January to advocate for legal protections for the unborn.
With Roe overturned in 2022, pro-life advocates have shifted focus to state-level restrictions, federal legislation and cultural change.
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The march is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 23, with participants expected to rally near the National Mall before proceeding toward the U.S. Supreme Court and Capitol Hill.
To the Participants in the 2026 March for Life
I send warm greetings to those of you participating in the 2026 March for Life. I likewise express heartfelt appreciation, and assure you of my spiritual closeness as you gather for this eloquent public witness to affirm that “the protection of the right to life constitutes the indispensable foundation of every other human right” (Address to Members of the Diplomatic Corps Accredited to the Holy See, 9 January 2026).
Indeed, “a society is healthy and truly progresses only when it safeguards the sanctity of human life and works actively to promote it” (ibid.). In this regard, I would encourage you, especially the young people, to continue striving to ensure that life is respected in all of its stages through appropriate efforts at every level of society, including dialogue with civil and political leaders.
May Jesus, who promised to be with us always (cf. Mt 28:20), accompany you today as you courageously and peacefully march on behalf of unborn children. By advocating for them, please know that you are fulfilling the Lord’s command to serve him in the least of our brothers and sisters (cf. Mt 25:31-46).
With these sentiments I entrust all of you, as well as those who support you with their prayers and sacrifices, to the intercession of Mary Immaculate, Patroness of the United States of America, and I gladly impart my Apostolic Blessing as a pledge of abundant heavenly graces.
From the Vatican, 17 January 2026
LEO PP. XIV
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