Discrimination at Villanova?

Discrimination at Villanova University?

Villanova, PA—The Pennsylvania Student Equality Coalition (PSEC) is deeply disappointed by Villanova University’s regressive decision on Monday to cancel revered LGBTQ performance artist Tim Miller’s scheduled appearance at the university, and calls on administration officials to reconsider their stance.

“To be in line with their own mission, which is laid-out as being ‘in search for world peace and justice,’ and to ‘fully comply with all the requirements of federal and state legislation with respect to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination,’ the Villanova University administration should reverse its decision to deny its students the opportunity for exploration and learning within the Catholic tradition,” PSEC Executive Director Jason Landau Goodman said.

Designed to be an informal, week-long workshop on the changing culture of diversity and the continuing importance of feeling comfortable with self-identity, Miller has performed at some of the nation’s most prestigious universities, including DePaul University, the Chicago-based Catholic school where Miller was reported to be warmly received by both students and faculty.

PSEC is disheartened by Villanova’s seeming allowance of politics and prejudice to overshadow what media outlets nationwide have praised as a thought-provoking and impactful experience for young college students.

Julia Arduini, co-head of Villanova’s Gay Straight Coalition and a co-founder of PSEC, expresses particular discouragement as an otherwise proud student and member of the Main Line community.

“For the past four years, I have felt incredibly supported as a gay student at Villanova University,” Arduini said. “This is out of line with my positive experience as a student; this is the first time I’ve been unsupported by my own school.”

PSEC will continue to monitor the controversy as new details emerge.

PSEC leaders at Villanova releasing balloons marking the end of the Day of Silence – April 2011

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