Calvin Zastrow, a 63-year-old Christian evangelist and dedicated pro-life activist, is about to take on a challenge like no other. On Tuesday, he will step into the Federal Correctional Institute Thomson in Illinois—a place known for its violence—to start a six-month sentence. This comes after he participated in a peaceful protest at an abortion clinic in Tennessee back in March 2021. His situation has caught national attention, highlighting how the Biden-Harris administration is aggressively using federal laws against pro-life demonstrators.
The Charges Against Zastrow
Zastrow’s charges stem from his involvement in a protest where he and others sang hymns and peacefully blocked the entrance to an abortion clinic. They were there to encourage women not to go through with abortions. Despite their peaceful approach, Zastrow was convicted of violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act and conspiracy against rights—a law originally aimed at violent hate groups like the Ku Klux Klan.
A Faithful Mission Behind Bars
As Zastrow prepares for prison life, his faith remains unshaken. Before turning himself in, he plans to pray and sing with friends and family outside the prison gates. He believes that even behind bars, he can continue his mission of spreading Christ’s message. “I’m praying to be able to witness for Christ,” Zastrow told The Daily Wire. “If I’m miserable there and can’t sleep well then I’ll just suffer with honor for Jesus… But if I’m able to get sleep and be healthy, I’m just going to see who the Lord wants me to minister to.”
The Reality of Thomson Prison
Thomson prison isn’t exactly known as a safe haven; it has seen its share of violence over recent years. From 2019 through 2023, five suspected homicides occurred within its special management unit along with two suicides. In 2022 alone, there were 275 allegations of sexual misconduct by staff members! Knowing this environment awaits him doesn’t deter Zastrow—his commitment runs deep.
A Broader Crackdown on Pro-Life Protesters
Zastrow’s case highlights a larger crackdown on pro-life activists by this administration.
The use of conspiracy charges against peaceful protesters raises eyebrows since these laws were meant for violent offenders—not those advocating for life! Across America—from Michigan all the way down to Washington D.C.—pro-life activists are facing similar legal battles.
The Ongoing Legal Fight Over FACE Act Charges
The fight over how these laws are applied continues as appeals make their way through courts nationwide. The Thomas More Society is stepping up as a defender for pro-life activists challenging these government actions.
Zastrow holds onto hope that future rulings could turn things around for pro-lifers everywhere: “A decision would stop this freight train from hell from persecuting all these peaceful pro-life Christians around the country,” he stated passionately.
Zastrow’s Disappointment With Current Priorities
As he readies himself for incarceration, Zastrow expresses frustration over what seems like misplaced priorities from our leaders today: “They don’t have enough federal agents protecting former presidents from getting shot in the head,” he remarked dryly; “but they’ve got plenty of Marshals hunting down pro-lifers.” It’s hard not to agree that focusing resources on protecting citizens should come first!
Chet Gallagher’s Sentence Adds Context
Zastrow isn’t alone; his co-defendant Chet Gallagher received a harsher sentence last month—16 months—and is expected at Thomson soon too after related convictions surfaced out of Detroit.
Despite looming challenges ahead though? Calvin remains resolute—he believes his mission carries on even while incarcerated! As he walks through those prison gates? Expect him singing “All Hail the Power of Jesus’s Name,” making sure everyone knows where his heart lies!
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