
President Donald Trump has signed an executive order pardoning 23 pro-life activists who were convicted under the Biden administration’s enforcement of laws used to prosecute demonstrators protesting outside abortion clinics. The move has been celebrated by pro-life groups as a victory for free speech and religious liberty.
During a signing event at the White House, Trump criticized the charges brought against the activists, calling the prosecutions “a disgrace” and asserting that those convicted were unfairly punished for expressing their deeply held beliefs. The announcement comes just ahead of the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C., where thousands are expected to rally.
Among those pardoned are senior citizens and nonprofit workers, including Bevelyn Williams, who received a 41-month sentence for participating in a demonstration outside a New York abortion facility. Williams, along with several others, was convicted under the FACE Act, which has been criticized by conservatives as a tool used to suppress pro-life advocacy.
"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
The Thomas More Society, a legal organization that represented many of the activists, had urged the Trump administration to act quickly, highlighting the severe penalties imposed on individuals who were involved in peaceful protests. Their efforts included filing clemency requests earlier this month.
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
Lawmakers in Congress have introduced measures aimed at overturning the FACE Act, arguing that the law has been weaponized against conservative activists. Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) and Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) are among those advocating for the repeal, saying the law has been unfairly applied under Democrat leadership.
Bevelyn Beatty Williams has just been pardoned by President Donald J. Trump. PRAISE THE LORD pic.twitter.com/AzISoDGoBr
— speaknsee (@speaknsee) January 23, 2025
With these pardons, Trump has once again demonstrated his commitment to supporting the pro-life movement and ensuring that those targeted under the previous administration’s policies receive justice.