Natalie Joy Poremski Scholarship

President Ronald Reagan once said, “America is too great for small dreams.” The mere idea of an American dream is enough for people to leave their homes, families, belongings - everything - in its pursuit. That’s why I choose to have an enormous dream – that all human life will be valued, protected and cherished. It is why I am in college to lay the foundation to make that dream reality. As a Political Science major, I am learning how to work within the political and legal systems to create laws that defend the preborn, the disabled, and the elderly. Ultimately, my dream and fervent prayer is for a personhood amendment that protects all human life. I have been pro-life for my entire life. I’ve been marching for life since before I could walk. As a child, my mom and I were founding member of Northwest Families for Life. In high school, that organization presented me their "Just Like Joe" award in honor of the late Joe Scheidler and the work I do to carry on his legacy. I was a Crusader for Life from age 13-19, founded the pro-life club at my school, worked for Coalition Life as a sidewalk counselor in Carbondale, IL, and I am currently the VP of Life on Campus and President of our Turning Point USA chapter. Through these pro-life activities, I have seen both the enormous power of prayer and also how our duties as pro-lifers are lived. Of course, we have a duty to pray for babies and mothers, and we also have a civic duty to defend them. This means calling our politicians to educate them about policies and the impact of their votes on legislation and also asking them to represent us by voting for life. In addition, we have to get out to vote in all elections to be the voice for the voiceless and help ensure people of good will take office. I live my faith by trying to find ways to put it into action. By caring for others and trying to make a difference in the world. I strive to recognize those on the margins, and it is my faith that is directing my future career goals to be a champion for those who cannot defend themselves. I realize that political activism (in addition to my social activism) is a unique approach for such a young person to take to work to end abortion. Yet I must do my part to bring change and defend the preborn. I will always vote pro-life and will also work to help cultivate future leaders and politicians who will use the power of their offices to be the voice for the voiceless.