Open letter to Archbishop Schnurr

Editor’s Note: While we staff find some grievous factual errors in this letter that need correction, its spirit of solidarity is something we find commendable and worthy of attention from those who live in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati.  Here are some clarifications: Xavier University and the Archdiocese of Cincinnati are distinct entities legally, according to canon and civil law.  As an institution run by the Society of Jesus, Xavier is not under the jurisdiction of the Archdiocese.  The Archdiocese of Cincinnati is not threatening to “fire all openly gay teachers and administrators.”  Rather, the new contract for teachers – who … Continue reading Open letter to Archbishop Schnurr

Arizona’s law and the free exercise of religion

This week, Arizona’s House of Representatives passed a bill stating that business owners, churches, corporations and other institutions have a right to refuse service or admittance based on an individual’s sexual orientation. According to supporters of the bill, its aim is to protect Arizona citizens’ freedom to abide by their religious beliefs. In order to legally deny service to a gay or lesbian patron, a person or organization must do so because of a genuine religious conviction that would be burdensome if ignored or contradicted. Under this bill, a “free exercise of religion” defense could be used in cases concerning … Continue reading Arizona’s law and the free exercise of religion

Putin’s response to “gay” theater Russian President bans homosexual representations in theater

By: Alex Spindler~Staff Writer~ Amidst the Russian controversy concerning President Vladimir Putin’s treatment of homosexuality on the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympic Games, Putin’s authority has even stretched into the realm of theater. Putin recently placed a ban on any theatrical … Continue reading Putin’s response to “gay” theater Russian President bans homosexual representations in theater