Chattanooga Community Gathers to March for Life

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – The March for Life brought together passionate community members and leaders today at Coolidge Park to highlight the value of life and provide resources to expecting parents.

The event sought to instill hope while offering tangible alternatives for those navigating difficult decisions during pregnancy.

Candy Clepper, President of Greater Chattanooga Right to Life, explained that the event serves to inform parents of their options and connect them with practical support systems.

With a focus on advocacy, Clepper stressed the significance of legislative action in protecting the unborn.

“We need to promote legislation that protects these innocent lives—the most vulnerable citizens,” she said, adding that such initiatives are the foundation for meaningful change.

Throughout the event, attendees were encouraged to embrace the support available to them.

Jenny Landreth, Development Director of Choices, addressed common fears and hesitations experienced by expecting parents.

She reassured them of the community’s willingness to walk alongside them during their journey.

“A lot of the fears that you might have about how difficult it’s gonna be, or how people might criticize you—let us help you walk through those. We want to be there for you. There’s no judgment; we just want to help,” Landreth shared, emphasizing the nonjudgmental approach of the participating organizations.

By offering these services free of charge, Choices Chattanooga aims to create a judgment-free, confidential environment where individuals can explore their options and make empowered decisions regarding their pregnancies.

Medical Services:

• Pregnancy Testing: Confidential and accurate tests to confirm pregnancy status.
• STD/STI Services: Screening and treatment for sexually transmitted infections, ensuring the health of both the individual and their partner.
• Ultrasounds: Limited ultrasounds to confirm pregnancy viability, gestational age, and location.
• Abortion Pill Reversal: Information and assistance for those seeking to reverse the effects of the abortion pill.
• Abortion Follow-up Care: Post-abortion medical care to monitor health and address any concerns.

Non-Medical Services:

• Parenting Program: Group classes covering topics such as prenatal health, birthing, baby care, financial planning, and nutrition. They also provide referrals to doctors, WIC, Medicaid, and other community resources to support parenting efforts.
• Adoption Referrals: Assistance and information for those considering making an adoption plan.
• After Abortion Support: Emotional and psychological support for individuals who have undergone an abortion.
• Support for Men: Resources and counseling tailored for expectant fathers to help them navigate the journey.

The event also brought attention to the role of the broader community in supporting families.

Mayor Weston Wamp spoke about the importance of collective action and the need to extend compassion beyond the political realm.

“This is not to me just about the issue of abortion, which is a controversial hot-button issue. It’s an issue this community has spoken out about for a long time. It’s also about what we are doing collectively to support and encourage adoption, to support teen moms, and to support the youngest parents and citizens in our community,” he said, urging attendees to consider the holistic needs of families.

Adding a deeply personal touch to the event, Steventhen Holland, a national advocate and author, shared his adoption story.

He described the transformative power of his relationship with his adoptive father, capturing the emotional bond between them.

“Again, I’m not his color, not his blood, not his DNA, and I’m laying on his heart. We are heart-to-heart, and that’s the way he held me,” Holland recalled, holding his son as he shared his story. His testimony resonated with many, serving as a powerful reminder of the impact of unconditional love.

The March for Life not only raised awareness about the importance of protecting life but also showcased the unity and compassion within the Chattanooga community.

It was a reminder that no one has to face the challenges of pregnancy alone.