Notre Dame and Obama

When I graduated from college-- then President Bush spoke, igniting a tremendous amount of backlash from the student body.

We were informed that protests would not be tolerated, that it was not our right to ruin graduation for others, and that if we did not like it that Bush was there, we may choose to not attend.  Protesters at the graduation, on school property, or surrounding school property, would be removed.

And they were.

What a difference a culture of acceptance makes... you can hold your 10 ft sign of a fake aborted fetus picture and feel safe, as you are across the street or on the quad.  You have the right to speak out-- and not just in a "free speech" zone.

I think its terribly incongruent of the Catholic Church to abide by torture and the death penalty but not by a president who wants to reduce the number of abortions through proven methods-- but that is a topic for another day.

The majority of the student body wanted President Obama (contrast OSU in 2002 with Bush).... and he came, spoke, and discussed dialogue, acceptance, and tolerance.  I for one think it was a good thing-- I know many attendees of Notre Dame who arent Catholic, or even remotely religious-- should scholarships only go to those who demonstrate that they adhere strictly to the religious tenets?  I think the diocese needs to get in line with reality here-- hosting the president does not mean you agree with his viewpoints, but are honored that the president speaks at your school.

What are your thoughts? 

I agree with you, and you put forth your argument very well :)

I commend the university for allowing the President to speak, despite the differences that exist between the Catholic doctrine and the President's own views. The bigger picture, which was overshadowed by the abortion debate, was the continued need for altruism among all people, regardless of religious beliefs. Summed up nicely by the president:

"For if there is one law that we can be most certain of, it is the law that binds people of all faiths and no faith together. It is no coincidence that it exists in Christianity and Judaism; in Islam and Hinduism; in Buddhism and humanism. It is, of course, the Golden Rule - the call to treat one another as we wish to be treated. The call to love. To serve. To do what we can to make a difference in the lives of those with whom we share the same brief moment on this Earth.

So many of you at Notre Dame - by the last count, upwards of 80% -- have lived this law of love through the service you've performed at schools and hospitals; international relief agencies and local charities. That is incredibly impressive, and a powerful testament to this institution. Now you must carry the tradition forward. Make it a way of life. Because when you serve, it doesn't just improve your community, it makes you a part of your community. It breaks down walls. It fosters cooperation. And when that happens - when people set aside their differences to work in common effort toward a common good; when they struggle together, and sacrifice together, and learn from one another - all things are possible."

well said.

i like that he recognizes those with "no faith" rather  than "anti faith" although I suppose objectivism and humanism and all the rest of the nondeist -isms do have an overriding faith-- the fallibility of man.

But all the same, I like it.  First time I have ever heard a president or even remotely big politician recognize that we arent all christian, jewish or muslim.

Makes me feel good.

well said indeed. i know he has speech writers (but he's able to pick & choose what is said), but his delivery is always spot on. but gawd that little inclusiveness must irk some people, he he!

I was under the impression that protestors were not allowed on school grounds - I think the few who pressed on to the property were escorted off.

I think there was a heckler during the speech, from the clip I heard on NPR.