Benedictine University Defends Hosting Trans Day of Remembrance Event

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Benedictine University, a Catholic institution in Illinois, has defended its decision to host a Trans Day of Remembrance event on Nov. 20, a day dedicated to honoring transgender individuals who have lost their lives to anti-transgender violence. The event was organized by the university’s Mission & Ministry and Safe Space programs, which aim to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals on campus.

According to the university, the gathering was held in observance of International Trans Day of Remembrance, with the goal of honoring the dignity of each person through the love of God and community care. A promotional graphic for the event included a quote from the late Father Mychal Judge, a gay priest and FDNY chaplain who died during the 9/11 attacks, emphasizing that all people are loved by God.

Benedictine University’s Safe Space program, managed through its Office of Belonging, seeks to equip faculty and staff with the knowledge and resources to create safe spaces and promote inclusivity for LGBTQ+ communities. The program lists 60 officially trained Safe Space Allies on the Illinois campus, including faculty, staff, and administrators.

The university’s stance has sparked debate over LGBTQ+ inclusion at religious institutions, with some criticism directed at the decision to host the event. However, Benedictine University maintains that its actions align with Catholic social teachings and its commitment to empathy and opposition to hatred.

The event and the university’s broader efforts reflect ongoing discussions about the role of religious colleges in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals while balancing faith-based values.