Catholic university cancels ‘abortion doula’ lecture, mandates student attendance
Catholic University Bans Abortion Doula for Using Radical Terms in Lecture
In a shocking turn of events, Catholic University has banned an abortion doula from speaking to a class after she encouraged students to use the term “birthing person” during a mandatory lecture.
“The Catholic University of America was appalled to learn about reports regarding this guest speaker,” spokesperson Nicole Germain told The Daily Wire. “It does not reflect our mission and values as a University that is committed to upholding the dignity of life at all stages.”
During her lecture, the abortion doula, Rachel Carbonneau, repeatedly used the term “birthing person” instead of “mother” or ”woman.” When questioned about her use of the term, she discussed her work with transgender individuals.
“We do tend to default towards women,” she said. “We are currently at Catholic University, but we are in Washington, D.C., which is a very big and broad space and we work with trans clients. I have some men who have given birth. It’s amazing.”
Carbonneau even referred to a transgender man giving birth as a “seahorse birth,” drawing a comparison to the marine fish species where birthing is carried out by males.
“We call it seahorse birth, it’s lovely,” she said. “Especially when it’s a water birth. Fantastic.”
Furthermore, students were given a reading that explained the term “pregnant people” for a homework assignment. The reading aimed to be inclusive to transgender men.
Carbonneau also admitted to advising pregnant mothers to have an elective abortion, which raised concerns among students who hold pro-life values.
Second-year nursing student Felipe Avila expressed his concerns about the university inviting a guest lecturer who works against the pro-life values of the Catholic Church.
“The decision to invite a de facto abortion counselor is deeply troubling, with far-reaching implications for the university,” Avila said. “The erosion of Catholic values in university curricula threatens the institution’s foundation as ‘faithfully Catholic.'”
Avila also mentioned that Carbonneau criticized doctors giving exams to women in labor, which he found highly critical and inappropriate.
Following the students’ concerns, Vice Provost and Dean of Undergraduate Studies, Lynn Mayer, offered to meet with them to address their worries.
It is clear that Carbonneau’s lecture has sparked controversy and raised important questions about the values and principles upheld by Catholic University.
Why is the use of the term “birthing person” incompatible with the values and teachings upheld by Catholic University?
This language choice quickly sparked controversy among the students and faculty at Catholic University, a private institution in Washington, D.C. that adheres to Catholic teachings on the sanctity of life.
The term “birthing person” has gained traction in certain circles as a way to be inclusive of transgender and non-binary individuals who may give birth. However, within the Catholic Church, the designation of motherhood is deeply rooted in the biological reality of a woman conceiving and carrying a child.
As a Catholic institution, it is understandable that the use of such terms would be seen as incompatible with the values and teachings upheld by the university. The Catholic Church holds that life begins at conception, and therefore, the act of abortion is considered to be the taking of an innocent human life.
By inviting an abortion doula to speak to a class, the university had already taken a step that was controversial within the context of its religious identity. However, the decision to ban Carbonneau from speaking again was directly linked to her use of language that was deemed radical and at odds with Catholic doctrine.
The university’s decision has been met with both support and criticism. Supporters argue that the university has the right to protect and uphold its religious teachings, even when it comes to challenging topics such as abortion. They believe that allowing the use of terms that deny the reality of motherhood undermines the Catholic faith and its teachings.
Critics, on the other hand, argue that the university’s decision is a form of censorship and an infringement on academic freedom. They believe that universities should be spaces for open dialogue and the exchange of ideas, even when those ideas may be controversial or challenge established norms.
It is important to recognize that Catholic University, like any private institution, has the right to establish guidelines and policies that align with its mission and values. If the university deems certain language or topics to be incompatible with its religious identity, it has the right to take action to maintain its integrity.
However, it is also crucial to engage in thoughtful and respectful conversations about these issues. Dialogue can foster understanding and bridge gaps between differing viewpoints, ultimately enriching the academic environment.
As the debate over the use of language and the acceptance of diverse perspectives continues, it is vital for institutions like Catholic University to navigate these discussions with sensitivity and respect for differing opinions. While upholding their religious teachings, universities must also strike a balance between preserving their identity and fostering an inclusive environment that encourages dialogue and critical thinking.
In this specific case, the banning of the abortion doula for her use of the term “birthing person” may be seen as a necessary step to maintain the integrity of the university as a Catholic institution. However, it is essential for Catholic University, and similar institutions, to continue engaging in open conversations on topics such as abortion, ensuring that differing perspectives are heard while upholding their principles.
By doing so, these institutions can both uphold their religious teachings and provide opportunities for students and faculty to explore and debate complex issues in a respectful and intellectually stimulating environment.
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