SIDNEY — More than 75 people from across Shelby County gathered in Sidney at the downtown courtsquare Monday evening to mark the anniversary of Roe v. Wade. Roe was the Supreme Court decision of Jan. 22, 1973 that legalized abortion across the United States. The event is sponsored annually by Right to Life of Shelby County.
The Rev. Peter Langenkamp, parochial vicar of Holy Angels Catholic Church, led the group in prayer, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Right to Life’s program director Kevin Schmiesing presented a history of Roe v. Wade its companion decision, Doe v. Bolton, highlighting the conversions of Norma McCorvey (Jane Roe) and Sandra Cano (Jane Doe), who both later regretted their involvement in the abortion cases and became pro-life activists.
The group then walked around the courtsquare holding candles, in silent prayer and remembrance for all victims of abortion. The program closed with an address by Right to Life volunteer Nan Martino, who explained how the group’s thrift shop serves the needs of the community by providing both low-cost baby supplies and many forms of personal assistance. Martino encouraged others to get involved as well.
“Outside of raising my own family,” she said, “my work with Right to Life has been the most rewarding experience of my life.”
