Three hours before a scheduled protest calling for the removal of Fr. Dan Parrish from Lund Family Hall, he announced in an email to Lund residents that he would be moving out of the hall through at least graduation.
Despite the announcement, students from Lund and GSP will still be gathering in front of Franz Hall at 4:00 p.m. today.
“I have decided to step out of Lund Family Hall through graduation so that I can better commit myself to serving my students and complete the semester well,” Parrish said in the email.
The email did not mention if he would undergo diversity, equity and inclusion training, as suggested by some students after the mediated conversation with Parrish on April 6.
The conversation held last week brought up concerns about Parrish’s social media activity and comments on the pride flag and having a statement of inclusion in residence halls. Students consider his behavior inappropriate and alienating for LGBTQ+ residents in the hall.
It is unclear if another pastoral resident will replace him.
Parrish did not say where he was moving to on campus but noted that he will be available for students for academic and pastoral purposes. Many clergymen are housed in the Holy Cross Court next to the Beauchamp center.
“The hardest part of the past week is knowing that so many students are hurting, including many here in Lund Family,” Parrish said. “... I commit to redoubling my efforts to love and serve you well. You will all be in my prayers during this end of the semester.”
Austin De Dios is the Editor-in-Chief of The Beacon. He can be reached at dedios22@up.edu.
William Seekamp is News and Managing Editor for The Beacon. He can be reached at seekamp22@up.edu.
