‘Life is not disposable’

Marchers take important message to state capitol

Red roses filled the halls of the Oklahoma State Capitol on Feb. 4 as pro-life advocates gathered for the annual Oklahoma March for Life and Rose Day.

The day began with a Sanctity of Life Mass at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, followed by a march around the capitol. Attendees later entered the building for Rose Day, presenting roses to legislators. The event concluded with remarks on the House floor, including a keynote address delivered by mother-daughter duo Cara and Mia Armstrong.

Catholic organizations including the Center of Family Love, Willow Pregnancy Center, Catholic Charities and the Catholic Conference of Oklahoma were among those present.

“It’s all about supporting families and creating stronger families,” said Willow Executive Director Carrie Rossow. “We build stronger families, and that builds a better community for our state.”

Critics of the pro-life movement have argued that support often diminishes after birth. Leaders at Willow Pregnancy Center said their mission extends beyond pregnancy by offering ongoing support to families.

Willow’s homeless shelter is currently at capacity and continues to receive daily calls despite an ongoing waitlist.

Students from Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School, Mount Saint Mary Catholic High School, Cristo Rey OKC Catholic High School and All Saints Catholic School were also present to deliver roses to legislators. Many said the day offered an opportunity to live out their Catholic values while developing leadership skills.

“Human life is really important because everyone gets a chance to live,” said Teresa, a sophomore from Mount Saint Mary.

Inside a packed House Chamber, Oklahoma State Treasurer Todd Russ quoted Saint John Paul II, reminding advocates that “the ultimate test of your greatness is the way you treat every human being … especially the weakest and most defenseless ones.”

Cara Armstrong told attendees, “Life is not disposable,” sharing her experience as a nurse who was encouraged to end her pregnancy.

“Love doesn’t abort the inconvenient. Love shows up,” she said.

Mia Armstrong, an actress and advocate for the sanctity of life, spoke about living with Down syndrome and the importance of defending the dignity of every person.

“Doctors tried to convince my parents not to give me life,” she said. “Down syndrome is my superpower.”

Archbishop Coakley, president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, offered the closing benediction.

“We are fearfully and wonderfully made,” Archbishop Coakley prayed. “We thank you for all who are defendants and advocates of the most vulnerable in our midst, beginning with the unborn.” 

For more information visit roseday.life.

Eliana Tedrow is a freelance writer for the Sooner Catholic.

 The Oklahoma March for Life was Feb. 4 at the Oklahoma State Capitol. The day began with the Sanctity of Life Mass at Corpus Christi Catholic Church then the Oklahoma March for Life around the capitol. After the march, participants attended Rose Day in the capitol. Archbishop Coakley delivered the benediction at the conclusion of Rose Day 2026. Photos Chris Porter/Sooner Catholic.