Degree’s context

Bishop David Zubik's comments on Notre Dame's upcoming honorary degree for President Barack Obama ("Bishop Says Notre Dame Wrong to Honor Obama," April 23) are a clear example of the modern lack of perspective and willful ignorance shown constantly by those on the far right. Even intelligent people can fall for single-issue politics, as the bishop has demonstrated well.

If Notre Dame were honoring Mr. Obama for his policies, he'd be given this accolade at the end of his term, but rather it is choosing to give Mr. Obama this distinction at the beginning of his term, which clearly says to anyone paying attention that they intend to note the historic and unique event this is for the millions of black Roman Catholics around the world and, yes, even the black Pittsburgh Catholics for whom Bishop Zubik is supposed to be speaking.

Mr. Obama's presidency, when examined from a historic viewpoint, is a major point of pride for all Americans. After all he's not merely the 44th president of the United States of America, but the first black one. Bishop Zubik should consider context before trying to lead his flock.

 

 

DAN SHEVOCK

Swissvale