WASHINGTON, D.C. – On January 23, 2025, former President Donald J. Trump issued pardons to 23 pro-life advocates prosecuted under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act during the Biden administration. Among those pardoned were seven individuals convicted of blockading an abortion clinic in Sterling Heights, Michigan, spotlighting the local impact of this controversial federal law.
The pardons, requested by the Thomas More Society, have reignited debates about the enforcement of federal laws governing protests at reproductive health facilities and accusations of political bias in justice administration.
Thomas More Society Leads Clemency Efforts
The Thomas More Society, a legal nonprofit representing pro-life advocates, submitted formal pardon petitions earlier this month. Their requests covered 21 of the 23 individuals granted clemency, including the seven convicted for the Sterling Heights blockade.
These individuals faced charges stemming from protests near abortion clinics, with some serving prison sentences and others losing civil rights due to felony convictions. The pardons restore their full rights and vacate their sentences.
Steve Crampton, Senior Counsel at the Thomas More Society, praised Trump’s actions:
“Today, freedom rings in our great nation. These heroic peaceful pro-lifers, shamefully branded as criminals, can now return to their families and enjoy freedoms that should never have been taken from them.”
Sterling Heights Case Draws Attention
The Sterling Heights case became a focal point in the debate over the FACE Act. Seven protesters were convicted of physically blocking access to an abortion clinic in the city. Critics viewed the blockade as a violation of women’s rights, while supporters saw it as an act of peaceful protest.
The pardons for these individuals have drawn mixed reactions. Michigan-based pro-life groups welcomed the clemency, while local reproductive rights advocates warned that it could embolden future clinic blockades.
Understanding the FACE Act
The Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act, enacted in 1994, prohibits force, threats, or physical obstruction to prevent access to reproductive health services. Proponents argue it ensures safety for patients and staff, while critics claim it is selectively enforced to target pro-life activists.
The FACE Act faced heightened scrutiny during the Biden administration, with accusations that it was used to unfairly prosecute ideological opponents. The Sterling Heights case exemplifies these tensions, with supporters of the pardons arguing that the law was misapplied.
Political Ramifications and Trump’s Legacy
Trump’s decision to pardon the 23 activists aligns with his broader pro-life stance and signals his continued influence among conservative and religious voters. Critics argue the move undermines the legal protections provided by the FACE Act and sets a concerning precedent.
Peter Breen, Executive Vice President of the Thomas More Society, thanked Trump for honoring his commitment to the pro-life community:
“These pardons restore justice to peaceful advocates who were unfairly targeted. Congress must act to repeal the FACE Act and prevent further misuse of this law.”
Critics Voice Concerns
Reproductive rights organizations, including Planned Parenthood, condemned the pardons, warning they could encourage similar protests that disrupt access to clinics.
“The FACE Act exists to protect patients and healthcare workers. These pardons send a troubling message that blockades and intimidation are acceptable,” a Planned Parenthood spokesperson said.
What’s Next for the FACE Act?
The pardons have reignited discussions about the future of the FACE Act. Pro-life advocates have called for its repeal, while reproductive rights groups argue for its enforcement to ensure clinic safety.
Congressional Republicans may propose changes to the law, while Democrats are expected to resist efforts to scale back protections for reproductive healthcare.
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