To the editor:
For several years the diocesan Catholic schools have awarded the Triple ”C” Award to a deserving student or students at graduation. This award is given from the office of the New York State Attorney General, Eliot Spitzer. There has been a great deal of prestige surrounding this award since it is recognition of a student’s character, courage and commitment to the school and community.
However I find it blatantly inconceivable that any Catholic institution could continue to award this with the name of Eliot Spitzer attached to it. It is no secret that Mr. Spitzer has been linked with abortion causes for sometime. After announcing his candidacy for governor in February, he was quick to assure his supporters that if elected governor he would sign into law a bill that would make the abortifacient, “morning after pill” available over the counter. He has long been an ally and advocate of the National Abortion Rights Action League.
Five years ago (2001) I wrote to the Superintendent of Catholic schools to suggest instituting a similar award for character, courage and commitment in the name of a more appropriate nomenclature. I suggested a “Cardinal John O’Connor Award” or a “Joseph Hogan Award.” Like so many suggestions it was relegated to committee.
Perhaps this will be the year when individual Catholic schools will rewrite the award so that it will be consistent with the Catholic character that defines the mission of the Catholic school.
Colleen Kelly Spellecy
State Street
Waterloo
