
President Donald Trump has officially pardoned 23 pro-life advocates who were prosecuted under the Biden administration for participating in demonstrations outside abortion clinics. The announcement was made on Thursday, just a day before the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C., an event expected to draw thousands of pro-life supporters.
During the signing event, Trump condemned the legal actions taken against the activists, calling them “ridiculous” and asserting that they should never have been targeted in the first place. The individuals, some of whom are elderly, were convicted under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act, a law critics say has been weaponized to silence peaceful protest.
Among those pardoned is Lauren Handy, who was sentenced to nearly five years in prison after taking part in a demonstration at a Washington, D.C., clinic. Another activist, Bevelyn Williams, faced a 41-month sentence for protesting at a New York facility. The Thomas More Society, a legal group representing several of those convicted, had petitioned the White House for clemency, arguing that their clients were wrongfully punished for exercising their First Amendment rights.
"Should not have been prosecuted"
Trump pardons 23 pro-life activists charged under the FACE Act @DailyCaller pic.twitter.com/Vk1SfHPpw6
— Nicole Silverio (@NicoleMSilverio) January 23, 2025
In recent months, Republican lawmakers have pushed for the repeal of the FACE Act, arguing it has been applied unfairly to pro-life advocates while largely ignoring violence and vandalism against churches and pregnancy centers. Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) and Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) have been vocal in their efforts to overturn the legislation.
Congratulations to @MrsBevelynW on being pardoned by President Trump!
Bev never should have been jailed! The Biden regime prosecuted her & jailed her for PRAYING outside an abortion clinic.
May this sweet woman find peace and comfort with her family. pic.twitter.com/fVrBISrLPR
— Laura Loomer (@LauraLoomer) January 24, 2025
The pardons highlight Trump’s commitment to standing by pro-life supporters and ensuring they are not unjustly prosecuted for peaceful demonstrations. Many in the pro-life community view the move as a significant step in addressing what they see as a double standard in the enforcement of federal laws.
Bevelyn Beatty Williams has just been pardoned by President Donald J. Trump. PRAISE THE LORD pic.twitter.com/AzISoDGoBr
— speaknsee (@speaknsee) January 23, 2025
The FACE Act, enacted in 1994, was originally intended to prevent violence and intimidation at reproductive health clinics. However, critics argue that under the Biden administration, the law has been selectively enforced against those with pro-life beliefs.