“Moment of Loudness” planned at midday Monday; discussion Monday night

A student commentary arguing homosexuality is against the Christian tradition published Nov. 4 in Davidson College’s campus weekly The Davidsonian has sparked a campus-wide debate and triggered plans for a midday rally today and other campus events.

The article by senior Michael Spangler (“Homosexuality against Christian tradition”) was paired with a counterpoint article promoting tolerance by another student, Jamie Hofmeister, titled “Accepting GLBTQs affirms Davidson’s ideals.” (GLBTQ = gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered and questioning). The articles discussed Christianity, homosexuality, and the college’s support of National Coming Out Day in October.

The Davidsonian’s editors encouraged the college community to engage in an open discussion about the two pieces, noting that

“part of respecting these various viewpoints is listening to those who may see the world differently, despite how difficult it may be for some. Similarly, healthy and persuasive discourse relies on this same principle, as it is impossible to carry on a useful discussion without viewing both arguments on an equal and level playing field. We hope that our readers will give both perspectives the proper degree of deference that each deserves.”

The publication of these articles immediately sparked a campus-wide discussion. Dozens of classes have discussed the articles, debating theological perspectives, parsing arguments, and evaluating rhetorical devices. Faculty have been talking  about the issue on campus and at informal gatherings in recent days.  Davidson alums from around the world have also joined in by commenting on The Davidsonian’s website.

Most comments on the website are supportive of the perspective of Ms. Hofmeister, a junior religion major. Alumnus Ben Van Dyke, who graduated in 2009, wrote in response to Ms. Hofmeister: “Thank you Jamie for your heartfelt, thoughtful, and articulate message of love, openness, and equality. You make me proud to be a Davidsonian.”

Many readers have reacted positively to the discussion, even if they disagree strongly with the views expressed in Mr. Spangler’s editorial. Other readers, like Ashley Semble ’09, felt differently: “As an alum and former writer for the Davidsonian, I’m appalled by this decision. I wrote an article about homosexuality and the need for greater acceptance on Davidson campus, and yes, I believe students voices should be heard; however, this will only make the Davidson gay community more closeted and more afraid to be themselves.”

‘MOMENT OF LOUDNESS’ PLANNED

Meanwhile, activities on campus have moved toward an embrace of diversity and a show of solidarity with GLBTQ members of the Davidson community. Student organizations will gather for a “Moment of Loudness” to “celebrate the harmony of difference at Davidson College” at the flagpole on the North side of Chambers building at 12:25pm today. The Gay Straight Alliance has also been collecting scores of signatures in support of a statement, below, that will run in this week’s Davidsonian:

In holding with the Davidson’s tradition, we, the undersigned of the Davidson College community, support people of all sexualities, nationalities, religious traditions, ethnicities, disabilities, and genders, and do not stand for intolerance or disrespect.

And tonight (Monday) at 7 p.m., campus Chaplain Rob Spach will host a discussion about homosexuality and christianity in the Alvarez College Union’s C. Shaw Smith 900 Room.