The Diocese of Worcester in Massachusetts, under the leadership of Bishop Robert McManus, has recently unveiled a new gender policy impacting over 5,000 students across 21 Catholic schools. Here’s the full story.
The Church’s Aim
By enforcing a policy that mandates students to comport themselves in a manner consistent with their biological sex, the Church aims to uphold its longstanding teachings and principles.
The Intolerable Actions
The comprehensive policy issued on August 15th stipulates that any form of bullying, harassment, or violence based on sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity will not be tolerated.
Biological Sex
Despite this, the policy reiterates that a student’s biological sex takes precedence over self-identified gender.
It Takes Effect on All School Aspects
This directive permeates various aspects of school life, encompassing athletics, dances, dress codes, use of facilities, and even official documentation.
There Are Exceptions
While there may be exceptional cases where students can request a change in names or pronouns, school principals will make such decisions on a limited, case-by-case basis.
Inspired by Pope Francis
The new policy draws inspiration from Pope Francis’ vocal disapproval of what he terms “new-wave gender ideology.”
The Church’s Belief
The Church’s position is rooted in the belief that these ideologies blur the lines between the inherent distinctions between men and women, a stance that Pope Francis himself has underscored.
Pope’s Message
The Pope’s statements emphasize the importance of understanding and accepting one’s own body as divinely created.
The Policy
The Diocese’s policy, in echoing these sentiments, seeks to ensure respect for each individual’s dignity while maintaining the Church’s doctrinal adherence.
Confused Notions of Secular Gender Ideology
The diocese released a statement saying, “We must always respect the sacred dignity of each individual person, but that does not mean the church must accept the confused notions of secular gender ideology.”
Encourages Students to Suppress Their Identities
Unsurprisingly, the policy has drawn both criticism and advocacy. LGBT groups in Worcester have expressed disappointment, arguing that the policy encourages students to suppress their identities and perpetuates a culture of shame.
The Policy Is Harmful
Joshua Croke, representing the nonprofit Love Your Labels, has criticized the policy for its potential harm and its perceived history of anti-LGBTQ+ practices.
A Confusing Situation
The Roman Catholic Church’s stance on LGBTQ+ rights has often generated confusion due to its nuanced position.
Not a Crime, but a Sin?
For example, Pope Francis has declared that homosexuality is not a crime, but he also considers it a sin.
Many States Have Done This
Multiple states have implemented or proposed laws that restrict transgender rights, particularly affecting transgender girls’ participation in girls’ sports teams.
They Have Taken Measures to Regulate Participation
States like Kansas, North Dakota, and Wyoming have taken measures to regulate such participation, while others like Missouri, Ohio, and North Carolina are following suit.
This Is to ”Protect Women”
Several social media users expressed their thoughts on the incident.
One Twitter user wrote, “I disagree with the Catholic Church on almost everything but not this. Protect women’s sports, women’s safe places, and women’s terminology. In short protect women”
It Makes Sense in Principle
Another User wrote, “See, I agree with this in principle. But it also concerns me when a kid has made false promises and now has to switch back.”
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The post “New-Wave Gender Ideology” – Catholic Schools Enforce Adherence to Names, Pronouns, and Restrooms Based on Biological Sex for Students first appeared on Fistful of Dollars.
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