Catholic School Withdraws from Parade due to LGBT Marchers, Allies Respond with Love & Support

The following letter was sent by Call To Action's Executive Director in response to hearing about Immaculate Heart of Mary's decision to withdraw from the St. Patrick's Day parade.

I am saddened by the Immaculate Heart of Mary School’s decision to withdraw from the South Boston Saint Patrick’s Day parade because it objects to the participation of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) marchers. The detrimental impact this decision will have on the students, staff, and families who are LGBT and/or on those who have LGBT family members and friends is serious. The decision conveys a message that LGBT people should be marginalized rather than be treated with respect.

As Catholics, we are charged with taking seriously the scripture passage that says there should no longer be divisions among us and that we are all children of God (Galatians 3:28). When the topic of sexual identity was presented to Pope Francis, he reminded the world that our Catholic response should be “who am I to judge?” I pray that Immaculate Heart of Mary School will respond similarly by reversing its decision and enter into a heart-filled dialogue with the LGBT community.

Sincerely,

Jim FitzGerald, Executive Director
Call To Action