NORFOLK, Neb. -- On Sunday, dozens of northeast Nebraskans gathered in support of the national Life Chain in Norfolk.

The Norfolk Area Right to Life group, along with fellow community members protesting abortion, joined together at the corner of 13th Street and Norfolk Avenue to protest against abortion.

Norfolk Right to Life President Janice Christensen said she has been participating in the chain since she was a child, and Nebraskans have been participating in the chain since the 1970s.

"To me personally it's very important. I was raised driving to Norfolk for this Life Chain that has been going on since the 1970s. I believe that every human life is important and has a purpose and has dignity."

Supporters from O'Neil, Osmond, and other areas came out to back the Life Chain, which happens on the first Sunday of October each year.

Christensen says participation in the Life Chain has an impact beyond her own community.

"The reason I help make this happen each year is so that everyone has an opportunity to come and make a difference," Christensen said.

Protesters gathered to partake in prayer for an hour and spread their message.

Christensen said she hopes to have more participants next year.