politics
20 Catholic-Affiliated Colleges to Hold Optional Lavender Graduation Ceremonies for LGBTQ+ Students
Georgetown, Boston College, Fordham and 17 other Catholic institutions are staging dedicated events apart from main commencements. Seattle University features a performance by Sativa the Drag Queen while the University of San Francisco schedules a Queer Prom immediately afterward. The Cardinal Newman Society criticized the ceremonies as conflicting with Catholic teaching.
May 9, 7:56 AM·2m read1 source
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At least 20 colleges or universities associated with the Catholic Church have held or plan to hold separate "lavender graduation" ceremonies this spring. The events take place apart from the main commencement ceremony and are intended to honor and celebrate the achievements of LGBTQ+ graduates, according to a Fox News Digital review of university websites and social media posts.
Georgetown, Gonzaga, the University of San Francisco, Boston College, College of the Holy Cross, Fordham, Fairfield University, Marquette, Xavier, Seattle University, Saint Louis University, Loyola Marymount, Santa Clara University, St.
John's, Albertus Magnus College, St. Mary's College of California, Regis University, Siena Heights University, St. Thomas University and Our Lady of the Lake University are among the schools staging the ceremonies.
Fox News reported that the term "lavender" has been used for decades to describe LGBTQ+ affiliations but has also carried a loaded meaning in Catholic circles. Seattle University's Lavender Celebration will include a special performance from Sativa the Drag Queen. Sativa the Drag Queen is headlining an event called DICK'S DELUXE DRAG EXTRAVAGANZA later this month.
The University of San Francisco plans to hold a Queer Prom directly after its Lavender Commencement. Other schools plan to give special honors, host various keynote speakers and provide students with unique cords or stoles they can wear with their cap and gown. Some events included food, drinks and other activities as well.
