Saint Mary’s College, a Catholic institution in Notre Dame, Indiana, recently reversed its policy on transgender admissions. This decision comes after the college initially announced a more inclusive policy that allowed applicants who “consistently live and identify as women” to be considered. This change had been a significant step towards inclusivity for transgender individuals.
However, the decision faced backlash from certain community members, including students, donors, and the local bishop, Kevin C. Rhoades. The college’s board, after considering the dissent, reverted to the previous admissions policy. This move has led to a division within the community, with supporters of transgender rights expressing disappointment and concern over the implications of this reversal.
Despite the college’s original intention to reflect their commitment to Catholic values and inclusivity, the backlash underscored a division in opinions among its community members. The board’s decision to return to the previous policy has been met with mixed reactions, highlighting the ongoing debate around transgender rights and religious values in educational institutions.