Intellectual Diversity within Georgetown’s Pro-Life Movement

When I first came to Georgetown, I never anticipated being a member of a pro-life club. Although it was a policy issue that I certainly had my opinions on, it did not seem very relevant until I started to think deeper about the helpless children at stake rather than polling statistics and argumentative tactics. That said, after meeting a few Right to Life members, not only was I happy to find out they were supporting the voiceless, but they were also a group of the friendliest people on campus. As someone who is a finance major and involved in the hustle and bustle of early career development, RTL was a breath of fresh air to say the least.

Moreover, though we all had common values for life, we had countless different backgrounds, religious affiliations, and defining traits. The pro-life movement at Georgetown brought me together with students who enjoyed passions ranging from literary classics all the way to international affairs and mental health. While I anticipated and worried that being part of a mission-based organization like Georgetown Right to Life would limit my experience to an ideological echo chamber (as many others would warn you), I was pleasantly surprised to find quite the opposite. Part of the club’s diversity helps us cover and help all of those in need, regardless of their personal background. Additionally, it also serves as a greater check on the organization to make sure that we are a well-developed and well-rounded group.

The supporters of the unborn at Georgetown are, rather understandably, the most kindhearted individuals that I have been lucky enough to call my friends. With that, I welcome anyone who is on the cusp of the pro-life movement, whether that means it’s something that has just crossed your mind, or you’re someone who is trying to find a way to help those in need, to feel free to meet us at our events, engage in dialogue, and perhaps even participate in a friendly debate here and there. You might be surprised by the ideas and people you’ll meet—that’s what happened to me, and it was one of my many blessings at the hilltop.

-AJ DeGrado studies Finance in the MSB and serves as the RTL Off-Campus Service Director.