The Rev. John I. Jenkins, president of the University of Notre Dame, has changed course and decided to allow a gay film festival and the play ‘Vagina Monologues’ on the campus in South Bend, Indiana.
As part of Rev. Jenkins Statement on Academic Freedom and Catholic Character, he has introduced a Common Proposal of Chairs of the College of Arts and Letters.
April 5, 2006
A. Faculty and departments must explore controversial issues. A university has an obligation to promote the free discussion of issues that are controversial in our society. A Catholic university has an added obligation to sponsor academic events that consider controversial issues in the light of Catholic teachings.
B. It is understood that certain presentations are intended to be provocative, and are so with good reason. Chairs, however, must make informed judgments on whether provocative presentations have academic or artistic value, or are gratuitously offensive. While the former may merit sponsorship, the latter do not. In making such judgments all must recognize the special identity of the University of Notre Dame, and take account of associated sensibilities.
C. Departments should act within their disciplinary expertise in sponsoring events. Inter-disciplinary events are encouraged, but there should be some connection between the sponsoring department’s discipline and the primary subject of the event. When inter-disciplinary events are sponsored, departments should seek joint sponsorship with relevant departments.
Read more hear..
Rev. Jenkins can be contacted through the Office of the President website or a tthe following contact information:
University of Notre Dame
Office of the President
400 Main Building
Notre Dame, IN 46556
574-631-3903
Tags: Family Values
No Comments »
