In the latest shocking development, the Minnesota Catholic Conference finds itself seeking aid from Governor Tim Walz, in response to dire threats against their institutions. It’s hard to comprehend, but these independent Catholic, Jewish, and Muslim schools are left to fend for themselves in the wake of potential violence. The Catholic Conference, justifiably concerned after the horrific Covenant School shooting in Nashville, requested a simple $50 million for safety measures. Yet, Walz decided those funds weren’t worth allocating, choosing instead to remain in good standing with the teachers union. It seems parochial schools’ proven success with less funding is a thorn in the union’s side.
One would imagine that every child’s safety should be paramount, regardless of the school’s religious affiliation. In light of this growing anti-Catholic sentiment, it’s almost unbelievable that a governor wouldn’t rise to the occasion to protect all Minnesota students. But instead of addressing the threat directly, there seems to be a pivot towards other issues that distract from the true concern. The bias against Catholic institutions is glaring, and it’s troubling to think that funds meant for safeguarding children are being denied in what appears to be a political play.
Let’s not gloss over the fact that these religious institutions have become soft targets. The Covenant shooting served as a brutal reminder of that vulnerability. Governor Walz claims he signed into law federal funding for school safety, yet the Catholic institutions still came up empty-handed. Letters from the bishops urging for more security funding apparently fell on deaf ears. The decision to ignore these pleas from groups trying to protect children is unfathomable and somewhat heartless.
The shooting, allegedly perpetrated by a transgender individual, has also stirred up controversy. Instead of focusing on the obvious anti-Catholic sentiment, the discussion has shifted to gender issues and the mental health struggles faced by the shooter. While mental health is indeed important, it shouldn’t overshadow the fact that the crime had a potential bias motive that warrants serious consideration. Ignoring this aspect not only insults the victims and their families but also sidesteps a critical conversation about religious intolerance.
Families now face unimaginable loss and trauma, living in fear of the risk posed to their children. Parents may even find themselves legally vulnerable for something they couldn’t possibly foresee. It’s time for leadership that prioritizes safety over politics, and answers the desperate calls for protection with action, not avoidance. The truth is that society’s failure to adequately address mental health, combined with an environment of intolerance, creates a cocktail that can no longer be ignored. The cost of doing nothing is just too high.
