Respect Life Week Declared in Yonkers, 4th largest city in NY State, by Mayor Phil Amicone

With over 100 supporters attending, Mayor Amicone did not mince any words in his support for the right to life of the unborn. His words emphasized the necessity of supporting women in crisis situations while working to change our culture, seeking common ground along the way.

The conference was held on the steps of City Hall, with everyone braving the miserably cold weather. Robert Astorino, former Legislator of the Westchester County Board who ran for County Executive against Andy Spano was present, standing to the Mayor’s left below.

The press conference was covered by Channel 12.

Facilitator and master of ceremonies was Dr. Elizabeth Rex, founder and President of The Children First Foundation, an organization that promotes safe havens and promotes adoption through fund-raising and the purchase of  "Choose Life" license plates.

Pediatrician Lisa Marrero, M.D., representing the Pregnancy Care Center, spoke wonderfully on the need to support women in crisis pregnancies. She is an early recipient of the Mott-Stanton-Anthony Award at the annual Women’s Equality Day Reformed ceremony in White Plains.

Colleen Barry of Silent No More also spoke, representing women who’ve had abortions and who are now speaking out in defense of life in the womb while offering support and healing to other women who have suffered abortion’s aftermath.

Pastor William Norman, Sr., of the Yonkers Solid Rock Christian Church spoke to the requirement of Christians to promote the right to life message.

John Margand (no picture, unfortunately) represented Healthy Respect, and explained the role of abstinence education and chastity in cultivating a proper understanding of human sexuality and good decision making for young people for a lifetime of health and happiness.

Mayor Amicone then read the Yonkers proclamation declaring January 20th the beginning of Respect Life Week in Yonkers, and presented the Proclamation to Elizabeth Rex, representing the many pro-life groups attending, including Tony Felicissimo and Advocates of Life.

Great job by Yonkers Pro-lifers! And kudos to Mayor Phil Amicone. Here’s a last picture of about 3/4 of the attendees who also heard the Mayor read President Bush’s National Sanctity of Life Day comments LifeNet: President Bush – Sanctity of human life day. The Mayor remarked that our day of commemoration was set before the President’s!