At the heart of Providence, Rhode Island, a contentious battle unfolds at Providence College, a private Catholic institution. E. Corry Kole, the former Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, has levied serious allegations of discrimination against their former employer. According to Kole, who identifies as nonbinary and uses they/them pronouns, their near four-year tenure was marred by systemic biases and harassment over their gender identity and sexual orientation.
Institutional Response and Community Backlash
The controversy escalated when Kole decided to resign this March, prompted by what they describe as an intolerable working environment. This action was followed by a formal complaint filed with the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights. The complaint outlines instances of discrimination, such as senior staff advising Kole against using they/them pronouns in public settings, purportedly to avoid conflict. While the college has dismissed these allegations as unsubstantiated, it has promised to conduct a thorough review.
The Wider Implications
The dispute at Providence College is indicative of broader tensions within the Catholic community regarding LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion. This case not only highlights the personal strife of Kole but also prompts a reevaluation of institutional policies toward more inclusive practices. The fallout from this case continues to stir the college community, with students and faculty rallying in support of LGBTQ+ rights, emphasizing the urgent need for dialogue and reform at Providence College.