After months of preparation, and the careful transportation of fetal models across the country, Sunday, April 12, finally arrived. Our staff and volunteers began the day early, setting up tables and placing thousands of fetal models across the lawn at the University of Massachusetts Amherst Student Union South Lawn.

Each model represented a life, and together they formed a visual scale that is difficult to comprehend until seen in person.

We organized the Truth About Choice exhibit as a memorial to the 49,450 lives lost to abortion in Massachusetts in a single year. From the outset, our intention was not legislative. Our focus was clear: to reach hearts. As we often say, laws alone cannot create the kind of change that is needed. Love, support, and encounter are what truly make a difference, especially for women facing difficult pregnancies.

Throughout the afternoon, students and members of the broader community moved through the display. Many paused quietly, taking in the scale and the intention behind it. Others approached our volunteers with questions. Conversations unfolded naturally. In several instances, students who initially came in opposition stayed for extended discussions, some lasting more than half an hour. These exchanges remained respectful and substantive, even when perspectives differed.

Some of the most meaningful moments came from individuals who shared personal experiences. Post-abortive students approached us with questions and concerns. In those moments, our role shifted from presenting information to offering support. Pregnancy resource staff who were present provided immediate assistance, ensuring that no one seeking help left without direction or care.

While the visual display captured attention, the deeper message extended beyond what could be seen. There are experiences, losses, and personal stories that no exhibit can fully represent. We remained mindful that behind every number is a person, and often, unspoken grief. Part of our purpose was to acknowledge that reality and to stand in solidarity with those who are still processing those experiences.

The exhibit also allowed us to present broader context. Massachusetts has seen a shift in abortion trends, including a growing number of procedures provided to out-of-state women. National data continues to reflect increasing totals as well. At the same time, research suggests that many women facing these decisions would choose differently if they had stronger support systems in place. This reinforces why our work must extend beyond awareness and into tangible assistance.

This effort was made possible through the collaboration of many partners, including Massachusetts Citizens for Life and support from Knights of Columbus Council 1619. Their commitment helped bring this large-scale display to life and ensured that resources were available to those who needed them.

We left the day with a clear sense that the conversations mattered. The visibility mattered. Most importantly, the personal connections made throughout the afternoon mattered.

The Truth About Choice exhibit will continue across Massachusetts in 2026, with our next display scheduled at Boston Common on May 2.

Watch Myrna Maloney Flynn, president of Massachusetts Citizens for Life, respond to questions during the event: