Education

Notre Dame Prof: Pro-Life Stance May Have Cost Colleague Job

Veteran Notre Dame philosophy professor Dr. David Solomon laments the firing of colleague Bill Kirk from his position as associate vice-president for Residence Life. Especially since he believes the reasoning behind the dismissal is questionable.

According to The Observer, Father Tom Doyle, Notre Dame’s new Vice-President for Student Affairs, terminated Kirk “in anticipation of a restructuring that I want to do.” Still, he said Kirk was “a loyal, a thoughtful and a caring administrator for Student Affairs.”

Despite the praises, Solomon is suspicious. “[Kirk's] removal from office took place against the background of other events at Notre Dame that inevitably raised questions about its real motivation,” he wrote today in a column in The Irish Rover, an independent student newspaper at Notre Dame.

According to Solomon, Kirk (who had been at Notre Dame for 22 years) was removed because of his hard-line stance with athletes–treating them as he would any other students–and possibly because of his public disagreement with the university’s decision to host President Obama, known for his pro-abortion stance, as the commencement speaker for 2009, and to award him an honorary degree.

Kirk’s wife served as associate director of the Notre Dame Center for Ethics and Culture, and was also a faculty adviser for the Right to Life Club. During Obama’s visit, Kirk joined her and numerous students at a rally sponsored by ND Response (see video below) protesting Obama’s appearance. “He was the only senior administrator at Notre Dame willing to do so,” says Solomon.

A Notre Dame spokesman refused to comment to LifeSiteNews.com about the reasons behind Kirk’s termination, saying that it doesn’t discuss personnel issues.

Being fired for standing up to the administration would appear to be inconsistent with the faculty handbook. According to it, Notre Dame “consciously create[s] an environment of mutual respect, hospitality and warmth in which none are strangers and all may flourish. … One of the essential tests of social justice within any Christian community is its abiding spirit of inclusion.”

But while official Catholic teachings are strict about abortion, Notre Dame has come under fire for not mirroring the Church’s stance. According to the Washington Times, “Dozens of bishops” said that the university “had forgotten its Catholic mission by awarding the president an honorary degree.”

Solomon noted that opinions such as Kirk’s should be welcomed: “Universities are no place for yes-men.”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1KUBdrrbF6o&feature=player_embedded

H/T: Steven Ertelt

Comments (54)

1 2
  • AlaskanWolf
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 2:40pm

    Danglinwhatevere

    Isnt it just like a liberal to bring race into it. “why do you only complain when the black guy gets the credit card?” Well slacker,it isnt cause he’s black. Oh wait,I forgot. Liberals only forget he’s 1/2 WHITE when it suits them. It seems that Liberals AWLAYS come to a battle of wits,totally unarmed.
    This professor has rights just like you do. Or is that only when he agrees with you? And the KMFA thing, that sounds like something someone with a 8th grader would come up with.

    Report Post »  
  • narniaexpert
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 2:39pm

    Abortion is the civil rights issue of this generation.

    Report Post »  
  • dssr1974
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 2:24pm

    A Catholic organization fires one of its professors for being fair, and for having a Catholic viewpoint….
    All this and more liberal crap brought to you from the Left Coast, where half the cities are named after saints, but God is prohibited.

    Report Post »  
  • debak
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 2:08pm

    When this Nations Supreme Court decided on Roe vs Wade it started the demise of a good and just nation where “Life” was a right of all. When this Nations so called Christian Universities stop defending the right to life, education there will no different that at the other “elite” liberal universities, not worth paying for. Human Life has a value to be protected at all costs, those without the honor and integrity to do so should be Dismissed, not the other way around.

    Report Post »  
  • judeslice
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 1:56pm

    I am confused Notre Dame was not acting Catholic when it let President Obama speak and when they gave them that honorary thing. 54% of the voting Catholic church voted for him? So what is the big deal?

    Report Post »  
    • CarolynAnn
      Posted on September 4, 2010 at 3:44pm

      I myself think there has been a very real effort to NOT teach the Catholic faith for the last 40 years or more. My children where taught from a program called Sadlier that taught love, and peace and good feelies but NOT their faith. No doctrine came from those years of Catholic school, now these children are adults, don’t know their faith and thus like you see no problem in voting for the evil of abortion.
      Many things have been undermined by progressives in the Church and our Faith has been the victim of this agenda.

      As a Catholic I am morally bound to not bring scandal to my neighbor, “For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward. And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea. And if your hand offend you, cut it off: it is better for you to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched; where their worm dies not, and the fire is not quenched”.

      Now what do you think ND did by bringing that man to Our Ladies University?

      Report Post »  
  • Steverino
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 1:26pm

    Hi, all. I think the best protocol we can follow here is to basically ignore “DANGLINGBAGS” and their ilk. Perhaps an occasional “leave” or something like that. It is not possible to engage in intelligent discourse with these folks, as their typical responses always descend to “name calling”. In the arena of debate and ideas, they’re foundering, and they know it. Let’s all set a high standard for The Blaze and not resort to the types of things we all see on other websites. (My two cents).
    Peace and Love,
    Steve

    Report Post »  
  • stephenb.net
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 1:22pm

    Bags, you have a right to your opinions but they would carry more weight if you were able to express them without vulgarity and insult. The first person to begin using foul language and casting aspersions toward their ideological opponent surrenders high ground and by default loses the argument. If your position is intelligent, logical and pertinent you would not need to resort to such a crude method of delivery.

    Report Post »  
    • Steverino
      Posted on September 4, 2010 at 1:31pm

      Well put, StephenB. In many cases, the best response to these types is none at all.

      Report Post »  
    • chinchokma
      Posted on September 4, 2010 at 1:42pm

      Very well said. Thank You StephenB

      Report Post »  
  • ProConstitutionPatriot
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 12:17pm

    Simply put, this is more evidence that the Leftist Disease/Socialism is infecting every aspect of our lives.

    For the Church to hesitate for even a second to prevent the appearance of someone who supports “Partial Birth” abortion, let alone the hideous act of Fetal Murder at all, shows that their “Leadership” itself is Diseased.

    Report Post »  
  • AmeriWoman
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 11:35am

    They should report their losses soon.
    You can Google it, but that decision cost Notre Dame dearly.
    Not to mention how many of us no longer will send our children there.

    Report Post » AmeriWoman  
    • saneromeo
      Posted on September 4, 2010 at 1:12pm

      Losses don’t bother them, they’ll will just get Federal subsidies…

      Report Post » saneromeo  
  • Thom of WI
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 9:03am

    For any parent that is stuck on the idea that, “ My kid is going to get a good Catholic college education at Notre Dame”, STOP RIGHT THERE!!! That was true 40 years ago. Today you can get any of this at any state run university. Save your money and voice your protest!!!!! Don’t send your kid to Notre Dame, not after this Catholic college awards someone who has had a solid record of voting PRO-ABORTION OR ANTI-LIFE in congress. When the $$$$$ become harder to find, they may just rethink their political correctness. Hmmmmmm…..

    Report Post »  
  • CarolynAnn
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 8:22am

    My husband who was a Double Domer at ND and graduated in the 70′s, felt that the school had already lost its Catholicism while he was a student. Thanks to Father Hesburgh there was a huge social justice movement raging there at that time that was deconstructing the True Catholic Faith. Obama‘s visit was just fruits of the seeds planted back in the 60’s and 70′s. There were and seems to be still professors whom stand up for their faith and the Magisterium but that appears to be something that is not going to be tolerated anymore. More fruit from the corrupted seeds.
    Parents just understand this is NOT a Catholic University.

    Report Post »  
    • chattycathy
      Posted on September 4, 2010 at 2:15pm

      Yes, and that‘s why it’s time that those who fiscally support this University with private donations should start paying more attention and spending their money elsewhere.

      Report Post »  
    • CarolynAnn
      Posted on September 4, 2010 at 3:05pm

      Oh yes, that is why my donations go to REAL Catholic Universities, Franciscan University and Ave Maria Law School in spite of my husband being an alumni of ND.

      Report Post »  
  • John Ciely
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 8:18am

    Those are the type of anti-gospel actions that drove me from the Catholic church in the 70′s.

    Report Post »  
  • Rickfromillinois
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 7:28am

    When academia says they are open to all opinions they mean all opinions that are the same as theirs. The educational elite in the U.S. are one of the least tolerant of opposing views of any groups. Also the professor insisted on treating athletes the same as any other student. Football players especially bring in allot of money for Notre Dame. I am sure that messing with that cash cow got some of the administration upset.

    Report Post » Rickfromillinois  
  • derekcrane
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 6:53am

    “One of the essential tests of social justice within any Christian community is its abiding spirit of inclusion.” So reads Notre Dame’s faculty handbook. Obviously this wonderful spirit of inclusion, diversity and tolerance does not include anyone with a reverence for life. Father Edward Sorin, a founder of the university, would be appalled at the destruction of Christian values at Notre Dame. derekcrane

    Report Post » derekcrane  
  • Daragon29
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 4:32am

    Well, I for one think that abortion isn’t a right of choice. I will say it should be ok if the life of the parent would be in jeopardy or if it’s a rape victim. However, to just let people get abortions whenever they want is nothing more then murder. And if I hear “Well it’s the right of the woman to choose.” I will scream. No it is not a right of choice. The Choice came when that female spread her legs. You do not have to have sex, and if you do have sex use a dam condom or other forms of contraceptions..

    Report Post »  
  • Dr. Sax
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 3:49am

    Interesting that “Father” Tom Doyle terminated his employment. :/

    Report Post »  
  • plunderpower
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 2:29am

    It’s a compliment to be fired from some jobs. Notre Dame used to stand for something honorable. It has become so diluted it stands for nothing anymore. Notre Dame should be ashamed of itself thoroughly and utterly. It has furthered itself through dilution to the point of pollution. Its former self is weeping.

    Report Post » plunderpower  
  • alshere
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 12:51am

    Lets see —— Notre Dame catholic colledge, pro-life professor, What exactly is the hook. Isn’t Notre Dame a prestigious school? The have a mosaic of Christ on a building at the stadium. A professor is fired for his pro-life stance. Go figure.

    Report Post »  
  • florentine
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 12:38am

    As an undergraduate student, I really admire you Dr. Solomon for speaking your mind and standing for what you believe in. As a Catholic University, there is a theological belief structure that must be respected as the University claims.

    You have honor and integrity, Dr. Solomon. The same to Dr. Kirk, your colleague and his wife. You give us hope by speaking the truth- it’s only fitting you are a philosophy professor. I’d love to learn from you, but rest assured I am learning from afar.

    All the best.

    Thanks to The Blaze for shedding light on this situation.

    Report Post »  
  • Veritas
    Posted on September 4, 2010 at 12:28am

    As a Catholic, I cannot understand anyone who considers themselves Catholic and Christian turning their back on the abortion issue because of any other reason. Our founders knew the the FIRST RIGHT WAS LIFE!!!

    Report Post » Veritas  
  • lpatti1
    Posted on September 3, 2010 at 11:40pm

    Dr. David Solomon: I hope your are not targeted for speaking out! What a disgrace that the UND administration sought to honor BHO, known for his pro-abortion stance, as the commencement speaker for 2009, and to award him an honorary degree.

    Report Post »  
  • SidneyDave
    Posted on September 3, 2010 at 11:32pm

    Just because it is a Catholic University does not mean the expose Catholic virtues. The Catholic church in America has moved from a spiritual to political agenda.

    Report Post »  
  • danglingbags
    Posted on September 3, 2010 at 11:13pm

    Why do you right wing whack jobs always resort to serial victimhood like sister Sarah. Perhaps the guy was a bum and needed to be fired. It happens everyday in America.

     
    • umrebel1991
      Posted on September 3, 2010 at 11:19pm

      A bum wouldn’t have been there for 22 YEARS!!!! As a student going into teaching I can tell you that the job market at all universities suck and they are trying to keep as many professors as they can. Thanks to Obama though that is becoming more and more difficult. So take your liberal garbage and go back to HuffPo or wherever you came from.

      Report Post »  
    • iatoala
      Posted on September 3, 2010 at 11:29pm

      Sounds like you have some experience in that bum getting fired thing dingleberry I mean danglething whatever

      iatoala  
    • EZBurns
      Posted on September 3, 2010 at 11:30pm

      Look, the Olympic Gold Metals in Victimhood are held by all Liberals.
      Next time read the article and try a bit of comprehension.

      I used to be like you, and I know that you are just trolling for a fight and not even trying to understand the conversation…because it’s all you can do.

      Victim.

      Report Post »  
    • EZBurns
      Posted on September 3, 2010 at 11:45pm

      Darlin’, its easy to kiss, wearing it on your shoulders like you do.

      Yes, please keep posting! Trolls are always entertaining. Besides, you just prove the point of liberals being emotion, not logic driven.

      Report Post »  
    • EZBurns
      Posted on September 4, 2010 at 12:08am

      Ahhh, so that’s it….

      Reading minds! Typical liberal. We‘re complaining now so it must be because we’re racists. Wow! What am I thinking right this second? QUICK! or you’re a charlatan.

      BTW, there were lots of us complaining about Bush, but SHOCKER, at his worst, he wasn’t as bad as Obama has proven to be in less than 20 months…. So saying we can’t complain about BO because of his race is— RACIST! So you’ve made the first racist remark on this thread.

      Secondly, Bush was on his way out when TARP, the housing bubble etc happened. We were loudly campaigning for his replacement, he was at the end of his term. So deal with it. BTW< you guys were sucking up the airwaves with "Bush is Hitler" crap 24/7. So please don't even TRY to pull moral high ground when it comes to critiquing a POTUS.

      You guys will go down in history as the champions of out of control rabid group madness.

      Lastly, we were LOUDLY complaining about our dem controlled congress for the last 2 years….how does 11% approval rating grab you? Can you go any lower? Pelosi is at 8%. YOU GUY.

      BTW, we have a pool on the votes in November….seems 50 is the FLOOR number for Conservative take over. My bet is 65 seats easy with 11 governors.

      See you November 3rd hun ;)

      Report Post »  
    • beavis
      Posted on September 4, 2010 at 9:30am

      Universities are run by left wing wack jobs now. Only liberal or progressive ideology is allowed. We need to take back the universities as well as the government from the left wingers

       
    • saneromeo
      Posted on September 4, 2010 at 1:09pm

      From George Washington to Barrack Obama the US borrowed 9 trillion dollars. In the last 19 months we have borrowed 3.5 trillion dollars… that is why we are complaining. ( Who is more foolish? The fool or the fool who follows him?)

      Report Post » saneromeo  
    • missmarie
      Posted on September 4, 2010 at 1:13pm

      Um, D,
      Your statement: “…Perhaps the guy was a bum and needed to be fired. It happens everyday in America.” isn’t quite true. All over the country our tax dollars are paying for unionized, tenured, or just plain ineffective teachers. It appears you’ve been educated by them in the past, perhaps? In fact, several educators receive the benefit of a big, fat tax-payer funded paycheck and loads of permanent life-long benefits under the agreement between the union and the district that they not teach or go near students. Which means, and I’ll try to type slowly so you can keep up, we don’t fire the bums, we pay them for not doing their jobs.

      This particular situation, you know, the article you’re commenting on, appears to be a case where the good guy – the dedicated teacher with morals, values and standards – is being unfairly treated. I’m thankful this situation has come to light and I look forward to seeing updates as more facts become available.

      Report Post » missmarie  
    • timeisnow
      Posted on September 4, 2010 at 3:35pm

      Dingleberry

      The real question is how do you Social Justice Freaks get up every day, knowing that your Agenda is done in November????LOL We know what you and Obama really are and, Socialists, it’s not happening in America. Deal with it Radical!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!LOL

      Report Post »  
    • timeisnow
      Posted on September 4, 2010 at 3:38pm

      Dingleburry

      Obama has tripped the debe in 18 months, he has spent more mony in this time, than Bush did in the Iraq war….Obama has spent more money in 18 months that any president has in History/…
      Dont think you can come on here and we wont blow your lies right out of the water, I will beat you at the Alinsky dance every time… Radical

      Report Post »  
    • timeisnow
      Posted on September 4, 2010 at 3:40pm

      Dingleburry

      Did I forget to meniton you are a Racist on top of being a Left Wing Social Justice Freak?

      Report Post »  
  • umrebel1991
    Posted on September 3, 2010 at 11:10pm

    Just another story that shows how socialist and political everything in this country is. Notre Dame, a school that is supposedly Catholic grants a Muslim with anti-Catholic views a degree. The school has lost its sight and mission. What is happening to our religions and religious values?

    Report Post »  
  • TexasConnie
    Posted on September 3, 2010 at 11:09pm

    This is a very sad development, and yet not surprising given the extreme political correctness in academia. Thanks to Dr. David Solomon for speaking out about the firing.

    Report Post »  
    • d55may
      Posted on September 4, 2010 at 10:36pm

      Barack Obama was the camel’s nose under the tent at Notre Dame. They couldn’t live up to their own values and he rubbed their face in it. The one who should be fired is the dean who allowed the camel to even get a whiff. If they can’t stand for the values and morals of the churches teachings how can they expect the students too. What a sorry power of examples this dean is.

      Report Post » d55may  
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