The Los Angeles Dodgers have decided to cancel their plans to honor the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence during their upcoming Pride Night celebrations, citing “controversy” surrounding the group’s invitation.
The decision has sparked backlash from both supporters and critics of the drag group.
The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, founded in San Francisco in 1977 and with members in various cities worldwide, including Los Angeles, is known for its charitable work and support of LGBTQ+ causes.
However, concerns were raised by the religious advocacy group Catholic Vote, which claimed that the Sisters mock real nuns.
While the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence emphasize their mission of raising money for those in need, ministering to the sick, feeding the hungry, and supporting queer arts and LGBTQ+ youth, other Catholic groups, including Florida Senator Marco Rubio, called on the Dodgers to rescind the invitation.
Senator Rubio argued that it would be an affront to millions of believing fans if the MLB, driven by modern, secular, and anti-religious values, rejected faith.
In response, Scott Wiener, a California state senator, asserted that sports teams in California should not be influenced by out-of-state entities and emphasized the state’s commitment to honoring the LGBTQ+ community.
The decision by the Dodgers to disinvite the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence was met with disappointment from supporters, who believe the organization’s charitable work should be recognized.
Following the announcement, the president of Catholic Vote expressed satisfaction with the decision, noting concerns about how the group was initially selected.
He argued that this incident should serve as a wake-up call, highlighting that unchecked corporations have no hesitation in marginalizing people of faith.
The Dodgers’ decision to cancel the invitation has ignited a debate about the intersection of religious beliefs, LGBTQ+ rights, and corporate influence.
Sister Roma, a member of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, lamented the hate-filled response received and characterized the situation as reflective of the current climate.
The cancellation has left both sides disappointed, with supporters emphasizing the importance of recognizing and supporting LGBTQ+ organizations, while critics argue for the preservation of religious values.
The incident has generated controversy and drawn attention to the ongoing societal tensions surrounding such issues.
