By Merlot Fogarty, First Things, Nov. 9, 2023
Merlot Fogarty writes from South Bend, Indiana.
The University of Notre Dame, founded in 1842 under the patronage of the Virgin Mary, recently sponsored a drag show under the “principle of academic freedom.” In response to criticism, the Catholic university defended its support of this event. The controversy has raised an important question: To what extent can a Catholic university rely on academic freedom as its core educational principle?
Professor Pamela Wojcik, chair of the department of film, television, and theater, brought a drag performance to campus on November 3. This semester, Professor Wojcik taught a one-credit course entitled “What a Drag: Drag on Screen—Variations and Meanings.” Posters invited all Notre Dame students, faculty, and staff to the event featuring performances by “Blair St. Clair” and special guests “Cordelia” and “London BaCall.” ….