The Vatican recently issued a declaration that has caused a stir among the transgender community, especially those of Catholic faith. Titled “Infinite Dignity,” the document is a reaffirmation of traditional Church teachings regarding gender, expressly denying the legitimacy of changing one’s biological sex. This stance comes as a particular blow to transgender Catholics who had harbored hopes for a more inclusive attitude under Pope Francis’s administration. The Pope himself had made several gestures that suggested a softening of the Church’s stance, including welcoming transgender women at public audiences and acknowledging their participation in Church sacraments like baptism and godparent duties.
A Community’s Reaction to Unchanged Doctrines
Transgender individuals within the Church are voicing their dismay, feeling betrayed by a doctrine that fails to evolve alongside contemporary understandings of gender identity. Maxwell Kuzma, a transgender man and lifelong Catholic, expressed his deep disappointment. “Despite the personal inclusivity shown by Pope Francis, this document perpetuates a lack of respect and support for the trans community,” he stated. This sentiment is echoed by Michael Sennett, another transgender Catholic, who criticized the Vatican’s avoidance of the term “transgender” as a move that diminishes their dignity. “By failing to even name us, the Church is showing that it does not truly consider us,” Sennett lamented.
The Broader Implications of the Vatican’s Position
The document’s content is not merely theological but has broader social implications, equating gender-affirming surgeries to violations of human dignity, akin to grave global issues like human trafficking and war. This assertion from the Church could potentially fuel further discrimination and violence against transgender people. Christine Zuba, a transgender woman, fears the impact this stance may have. “It legitimizes the denial of our existence and exposes us to more harm,” Zuba explained. Furthermore, the Rev. Alexander Santora, a priest at Our Lady of Grace in New Jersey, noted some positive aspects of the document, such as the decriminalization of homosexuality, but feared its overall tone could incite more prejudice against the transgender community.