Students at the University of Notre Dame, one of the most popular Catholic universities in the U.S., are expressing their disapproval of a drag queen symposium organized and sponsored by the school administration. The event is scheduled to take place on November 3 as part of a one-credit course named “What a Drag: Drag on Screen — Variations and Meanings.” Concerned students are urging Vice President of Student Affairs Fr. Gerry Olinger to reconsider the university’s involvement in hosting the event, citing its contradiction to Catholic teachings.
In an editorial for a student publication, students expressed their disappointment in seeing promotional posters throughout the campus advertising the drag show. They emphasized the significance of recent efforts to restore Notre Dame’s Virgin Mary statue, which they believe highlights the beauty and truth of femininity in the image of God. They argue that drag performances, with their burlesque-style entertainment, distort and mock this sacred representation of femininity.
The students further question how attending such a performance aligns with their mission to promote goodness and truth in the world. Posters advertising the event emphasize that it is open to all university members, with free tickets available.
A student named Merlot Fogarty wrote to Fr. Olinger, expressing concern that university funds would be used to invite drag artists to Notre Dame. Fogarty highlighted the potential promotion of the belief that gender and sexuality are fluid, which directly contradicts the teachings of the Catholic Church.
Fr. Olinger defended the event by invoking the principle of academic freedom, stating that it applies even when the content of a presentation may be objectionable to some. He explained that since the event is part of a one-credit course in film, television, and theater focused on the history of drag, academic freedom is vital.
The controversy surrounding drag queen performances has been growing within Catholic communities, especially after the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrated anti-Catholic drag “nuns” earlier this year. The baseball team honored the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence with a “Community Hero award” during their Pride Night celebrations. This decision sparked outrage and led to the ceremony being rescheduled to before the game with limited spectators.
Digital reached out to the University of Notre Dame for comment but did not receive a response by the time of publication.
In conclusion, students at the University of Notre Dame are protesting a drag queen symposium being hosted on campus, expressing concerns about its contradiction to Catholic teachings. The university administration defended the event on the grounds of academic freedom. The controversy reflects a broader debate within Catholic communities regarding the acceptance and celebration of drag performances.
