Notre Dame welcomes Mike Pence as their commencement speaker this coming graduation season
US Vice President Mike Pence will deliver the commencement address at the University of Notre Dame in May 2017, marking the first time a sitting vice president has done so at the prestigious institution. Alongside this honor, Pence will also receive an honorary degree at the ceremony.
Born in Columbus, Indiana, Pence served as governor of the state before becoming vice president. His political career has been marked by his strong stance on religious freedom and traditional marriage. Pence signed a state version of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act to protect those who support traditional marriage. He also identifies as a 'born-again, evangelical Catholic.'
Pence's religious beliefs have played a significant role in his political decisions. During the vice presidential debate, he emphasized that his Christian faith centers around the 'sanctity of life.' Pence has been a vocal critic of abortion and harshly criticized Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton and vice presidential candidate Tim Kaine for their support of the practice.
One of the most notable disputes involving Pence's religious beliefs was with Archbishop Joseph Tobin over the resettlement of Syrian refugees in Indiana. Before the meeting with Pence, Archbishop Tobin had asked Catholic Charities to resettle a Syrian refugee family in the state. However, after the meeting, Pence's office disagreed with the decision, leading to a public disagreement that drew significant media attention.
Pence also asked for a temporary halt to resettlement programs for Syrians in the state following the Paris terror attacks. This decision was controversial, with some arguing that it was discriminatory towards refugees.
Despite these disputes, Notre Dame President Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C. stated that Pence's service to the state and nation with 'moral conviction and a dedication to the common good' warrants recognition. Pence's controversial stance on religious freedom and refugee resettlement, however, may continue to be a topic of discussion as he delivers the commencement address at the University of Notre Dame.
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