In a recent development, Saint Mary’s College in Notre Dame, Indiana, has reversed its decision to allow transgender women to attend the university. The decision came after facing harsh criticism from individuals who believed the policy contradicted Catholic teachings. The move has sparked debate and division within the college community.
The reversal was announced by President Katie Conboy and Maureen Smith, the chair of the school’s board of trustees, in an email sent to the Saint Mary’s College community. The email stated that the board believed the previous policy change was in line with the college’s commitment to inclusivity and its Catholic values. However, they acknowledged that not all members of the community shared the same viewpoint.
The decision to reverse the policy was influenced by concerns that it was diluting the school’s mission and threatening its Catholic identity. Conboy and Smith expressed regret for unintentionally creating division and losing people’s trust during the past month. They apologized for the impact of their decision and announced that the school would return to its previous admission policy.
Saint Mary’s College, a Catholic women’s school, was founded in 1844 by four Sisters of the Holy Cross. The college’s initial decision to allow transgender women had sparked a broader conversation about gender identity and Catholic beliefs. It also raised questions about the balance between inclusivity and the preservation of religious values.
The issue of gender identity has gained attention within the Catholic Church, with Pope Francis expressing concerns about what he refers to as “gender ideology.” In an interview, he cautioned against blurring the differences between men and women and emphasized the importance of pastoral care for individuals with different sexual orientations while distinguishing it from endorsing gender ideology.
The decision by Saint Mary’s College to reverse its admission policy highlights the ongoing debates surrounding gender inclusivity and religious teachings. It underscores the complexities faced by institutions in navigating these issues while striving to uphold their values and maintain unity within their communities.
