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Illinois Catholic College Champions Inclusivity by Hosting Trans Day of Remembrance Event
Benedictine University, located in Illinois, has taken a strong stand for inclusivity as it hosted a “Trans Day of Remembrance” event. This significant gathering took place on November 20, coinciding with the national observance dedicated to honoring transgender individuals who lost their lives to violence.
Understanding the Event and Its Significance
The Trans Day of Remembrance serves as a critical opportunity to reflect on the challenges faced by the transgender community. Organized by the university’s Mission and Ministry along with the Safe Space initiative, this event seeks to create awareness and promote empathy within the campus community.
The university emphasized its commitment to inclusivity through a graphic promoting the event, which articulated a call for unity and remembrance. It stated, “We come together in observance of International Trans Day of Remembrance, remembering those whose lives have been lost due to anti-trans violence. May we honor the dignity of each person through the love of God and deep care of community.”
Influential Words from Fr. Mychal Judge
This year’s observance included a poignant quote from the late Fr. Mychal Judge, a notable figure known as the first recorded casualty of 9/11. Judge’s legacy continues to resonate, especially within LGBTQ+ circles. The quote shared during the event, “If no one told you today that they love you … you’re always held and loved by God,” served to uplift attendees and honor the deceased.
Commitment to Safe Spaces
Benedictine University, different from its counterpart Benedictine College in Kansas, actively supports a Safe Space program through its Office of Belonging. This program focuses on equipping faculty and staff with the necessary tools to foster a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ individuals on campus.
The university’s commitment to inclusivity is clear, as it works to create a community characterized by empathy and rejection of hatred. The Safe Space program webpage highlights that the institute welcomes LGBTQ+ persons with sincerity and generosity.
The Role of Safe Space Allies
In alignment with its Safe Space mission, the university has designated trained “Safe Space Allies” from various departments across the campus. This group comprises a diverse mix of faculty, including deans and professors, all committed to creating an affirming atmosphere for students. There are currently 60 Safe Space Allies recognized on the Illinois campus, and the university also maintains a presence in Mesa, Arizona.
The University’s Response to Criticism
Benedictine University’s decision to host the event has sparked discussion, especially given the Catholic Church’s official stance on LGBTQ+ issues. The Church does not recognize gay marriage or transgender identities as part of its doctrine.
In response to inquiries from media outlets, the university provided a comprehensive statement defending the significance of the event. The statement emphasized the importance of honoring every person’s dignity, asserting, “At Benedictine University, we believe that honoring the dignity of every person and praying for those who have died are fundamental expressions of our Catholic and Benedictine identity.”
This service served as a heartfelt memorial to acknowledge lives lost, steeped in the tenets of Catholic social teaching which holds that every individual possesses inherent dignity.
A Long-standing Tradition of Remembrance
Since 2018, the community at Benedictine University has observed this tradition of remembrance, illustrating its ongoing dedication to these ideals. The statement continued, “Everyone deserves respect, love, safety, and justice. Every life deserves profound reverence. Every life lost deserves to be remembered. When we witness suffering, injustice, and violence, it’s our duty to love.”
A Vision for an Inclusive Community
The university’s leadership reiterated its pledge to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all. They stated, “We remain committed to being a community where all feel safe, respected, and welcomed, where we can come together in prayer, especially in moments of sorrow.” This assertion speaks volumes about their ongoing commitment to inclusivity amidst the complex and evolving dialogue around LGBTQ+ issues within faith-based institutions.
As campuses across the nation grapple with such issues, the example set by Benedictine University represents a significant step toward fostering an inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The commitment to safety and respect marks a pivotal shift not only within the institution but also in the broader societal landscape.
