In the heat of controversy over the Los Angeles Dodgers’ decision to host the drag queen group Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence for Pride Night, the California State Legislature is preparing to honor the group known for its anti-Catholic messaging.
The legislature’s LGBTQ Caucus aims to recognize Michael Williams, known as “Sister Roma,” for his efforts with the San Francisco-based group. This decision stands despite an uproar from Christian and Catholic fans, with some accusing the state of harboring an anti-Christian sentiment.
"Honoring the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, a group whose sole mission is to sexualize nuns and mock Jesus, reveals the true depth of hatred California’s elected officials have for the millions of Catholics residing in the state.”
https://t.co/f8YZiDVQ3l— James Woods (@RealJamesWoods) June 1, 2023
“For more than three decades, Sister Roma has been one of the most outspoken and globally recognized members of San Francisco’s Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence,” said the LGBTQ Caucus. However, this tribute has stirred dissent among conservatives who view the group as threatening religious freedom.
Mark Trammell, executive director of the Center for American Liberty, has accused the group of mocking religious symbols and doctrines, declaring that honoring them “reveals the true depth of hatred California’s elected officials have for the millions of Catholics residing in the state.”
Indeed, the state’s decision to honor a group known for pole dancing on crosses and other acts deemed by many as disrespectful towards Christianity has led to outrage among many conservatives. Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher questioned if the same honor would be granted if the group mocked religions other than Christianity, emphasizing that “bigotry and discrimination against any religious group are wrong.”
The Dodgers, too, faced intense backlash for inviting the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence to Pride Night. Although the invite was initially retracted, the Dodgers later reissued it, further inflaming Christian and Catholic fans. Blake Treinen, a pitcher for the Dodgers, voiced his disapproval of the decision, asserting, “Inviting the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence to perform disenfranchises a large community and promotes hate of Christians and people of faith.”
Treinen emphasized that fans turn to sports for entertainment and competition, not to have political or ideological agendas forced upon them. “The debacle with Bud Light and Target should be a warning to companies and professional sports to stay true to their brand and leave the propaganda and politics off the field,” he stated.
While many critics of the group point to its actions as a mockery of faith, the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence continue to gain recognition within liberal circles. Yet, many are left wondering why this group is celebrated for actions that would undoubtedly be deemed unacceptable if directed toward other religious groups.
Indeed, in a state with a sizable Catholic population, honoring a group known for its derisive antics may yield more division than unity. An environment that respects all faiths and beliefs without resorting to ridicule or mockery is a more desirable goal for us all.
