ROCKFORD—On June 27, the Rockford Family Initiative (RFI) and many co-sponsors will host the sixth annual Walk for Life and Family in downtown Rockford. The walk will affirm the dignity of human life and the importance of family values.
Pro-lifers will gather at 425 E. State St. outside City Hall. A meet-and-greet with sponsoring organizations starts at 10 a.m. The rally and walk will begin at 11 a.m. with prayer led by Father Phillip Kaim, S.T.L., Vicar for Clergy and pastor of Holy Family Parish, Rockford. The walk will pass through downtown Rockford and will close with a gathering at 12:15 p.m.
As abortion access continues to expand throughout Illinois, including the operation of a chemical-abortion provider in Rockford, RFI hopes to offer a positive and compassionate witness for life while encouraging support for mothers, children, and families.
“Our goal is not simply to oppose abortion,” said Kevin Rilott of the RFI. “We want to build a culture where every child is welcomed, every mother is supported, and families can thrive.”
This year, the walk also highlights young leaders’ witness to faith, family and freedom.
“In a time when many young people are pressured to stay silent about their beliefs, these speakers are courageously stepping forward to defend life, family, and truth in the public square,” said Dolores Pribble of the RFI.
Featured speakers include:
– Elyse Sardegna, a missionary with Biking for Babies. Young adult missionaries of this national pro-life organization raise awareness and support for pregnancy resource centers while biking hundreds of miles across multiple states.
– Jayden Gallagly, a Boone County Board candidate and Students for Illinois Co-Chair. He also serves as the Rockford-area Turning Point USA leader and was a friend of conservative political activist Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA.
Find more information at https://www.proliferockford.com/walk
