The recent hiring decision at the University of Notre Dame has sparked a controversy that has led to a rift within the institution. A clash of values and beliefs has caused a divide, with staff members cutting ties over a matter of principle.
Two esteemed professors, Diane A. Desierto and Robert M. Gimello, have decided to sever their connections with the Liu Institute for Asia and Asian Studies. Their decision comes as a response to the institute's appointment of a professor who openly advocates for abortion rights, a stance that contradicts the university's Catholic mission.
Desierto, a professor of law and global affairs, officially resigned from her positions as a Faculty Fellow and member of the Liu Institute's Faculty Executive Committee. In a statement to Fox News Digital, she confirmed her decision, stating, "I gave up my appointments yesterday." Gimello, a research professor emeritus of theology, also expressed his dismay and regret in a letter to Michel Hockx, the director of the Liu Institute. He requested that his name and photograph be removed from the institute's roster, emphasizing his desire to disassociate himself from the appointment of Susan Ostermann.
But here's where it gets controversial... Ostermann, who joined Notre Dame in 2017 as a global affairs professor, was appointed as the director of the Asian studies center in July. This move has sparked a debate within the university community, as Ostermann's public support for abortion rights is at odds with the Catholic values that Notre Dame upholds.
In a letter obtained by Fox News Digital, Gimello wrote, "The recently announced appointment of your successor as Director of the Liu Center compels my resignation." He added, "I can only hope for a future where the Institute fulfills its role as a faithful instrument of our University's Catholic mission."
Gimello's concerns are not isolated. In 2022, Ostermann co-authored an article titled, "Lies about abortion have dictated our health policy," with former Notre Dame professor Tamara Kay. In this article, they argued that almost 90% of abortions occur during the first 10 weeks of pregnancy, when there are no discernible babies or fetuses. They also claimed that abortion is safe and does not have long-term effects on physical or mental health, a statement that goes against the Catholic Church's teachings.
And this is the part most people miss... The authors of the article further asserted that abortion does not cause cancer, does not affect future fertility, and that most people feel relief after the procedure. They even compared the safety of medication abortions to taking Tylenol. In another article published by Salon, Ostermann and Kay wrote that criminalizing abortion can increase abortion rates, unintended pregnancies, and infant mortality.
Gimello, in his statement to Fox News Digital, cited Ostermann's public advocacy for abortion as the primary reason for his resignation. He expressed his belief that continued association with a unit led by someone who opposes the Catholic Church's teachings on protecting human life is simply unacceptable.
The controversy surrounding Ostermann's appointment has raised questions about the university's commitment to its Catholic identity. Gimello, a scholar focused on Asia's religious and intellectual traditions, expressed concern that Ostermann's views could confuse those outside of Notre Dame about the university's adherence to its Catholic roots.
"Questions regarding the nature and value of human life, including abortion, are central to Asian countries' intellectual, religious, and ethical traditions," Gimello said. "It is essential for Notre Dame's Asian outreach to faithfully represent the Catholic Church's views on these matters."
Notre Dame has stood by its decision to appoint Ostermann, stating that Gimello retired from the Department of Theology in 2017 and has not been an active member of either department since then. The university emphasized that his listing as an emeritus fellow with the Liu Institute was a professional courtesy.
The controversy surrounding this hiring decision has sparked a debate within the Notre Dame community and beyond. It raises important questions about the balance between academic freedom and institutional values. As the situation unfolds, it will be interesting to see how the university navigates this complex issue. What are your thoughts on this matter? Do you think academic institutions should prioritize their core values, even if it means making difficult choices? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments below!
