AUSTIN, Texas — The annual Texas Rally for Life, hosted by the Texas Alliance for Life, took place this past Saturday in Austin. 

According to organizers, the initiative seeks to empower the community in protecting life.

Texas Alliance for Life Communications Director Amy O’Donnell highlighted the importance of this year’s rally because of the current legislative session.

“This is our opportunity to show, in a visual way, those who are part of making the legislation happen, that we still value life, and we don’t want to see any losses there. We want to keep holding our gains and keep providing for women and families.”

The Texas Department of Public Safety estimates around 4,000 people attended.

In an audio message played at the rally, Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, described Texas as the most pro-life state in the nation.

“I can say without a doubt that Texas is the most pro-life state in the entire nation. We’ve set an undeniable example how to protect those who cannot protect themselves. The hard work and advocacy of groups like the Texas Alliance for Life has been instrumental in cementing Texas as a pro-life leader," he said. 

Cynthia Serna, 40 Days for Life San Antonio coordinator, said she hopes to prevent other women from repeating her past mistakes. “I should have had my child. I was going to join the Navy at the time that I found out, and I was not given any options,” she said. “I could have placed my child for adoption, but I was quickly coerced into just fixing the problem, and that meant having an abortion.”

The entire rally can be viewed online here.