Protests against Dodgers’ Pride Night; Few spectators witness drag ‘nuns’ being honored.

Protesters Rally Against Dodgers’ Honoring of Drag Troupe

A large group of demonstrators gathered outside Dodger Stadium on Friday to protest the Los Angeles Dodgers’ decision to honor the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, a drag troupe of self-described “queer and trans nuns.” The controversial group, known for their antics that mock the Catholic faith, has sparked outrage among Catholics.

The rally, organized by a group called Catholics for Catholics, saw thousands of people joining in prayerful response to the Dodgers’ decision. Flyers were distributed, calling on individuals to stand against the “blasphemous, Christ-mocking” Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence.

A massive group of Catholics and Christians have arrived outside of Dodger Stadium to pray in protest of the Dodgers honoring the “Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence.”
pic.twitter.com/HYprx1N16l

— Citizen Free Press (@CitizenFreePres) June 16, 2023

Catholics for Catholics celebrated the massive turnout, with over 5,000 individuals joining the prayer rally.

HUGE SUCCESS! Prayer Rally Officially Concludes. Over 5K strong!! Massive outpouring! @JackPosobiec pic.twitter.com/y202RAGE2g

— Catholics for Catholics (@CforCatholics) June 17, 2023

Despite the controversy, the Dodgers proceeded with their plan to honor the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence during a pre-game ceremony. Two members of the group, “Sister Unity” and “Sister Dominia,” received the award while fans in the stadium watched and cheered.

DODGER STADIUM-The “Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence” are recognized for Pride night to a mostly empty audience.

Two Dodgers fan nearby begin loudly booing after they’re announced: pic.twitter.com/OO6NT5RIc8

— Savanah Hernandez (@sav_says_) June 17, 2023

“The Dodgers community hero award goes to an organization reaching the LGBTQ+ community, the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, LA chapter,” announced stadium announcer Todd Leitz. “Please join us in recognizing the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence for their outstanding service to the LGBTQ+ community.”

While the group claims to engage in satire while promoting human rights and diversity, critics strongly oppose their bawdy caricature of the Catholic religion. The protest against the Dodgers’ decision received support from many, including Senator Marco Rubio, who highlighted the protest as a stand against an “anti-Christian hate group.”

Despite the controversy, the stadium filled up for the game itself, with an attendance of 49,074 fans, reaching 88% of the stadium’s capacity. The San Francisco Giants emerged victorious with a 7-5 win in the 11th inning.

CLARIFICATION: To those questioning my observation regarding the empty stadium for the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, it was a comparison of how there were thousands of Catholics protesting outside (4.5 hours before the game was set to begin). The Dodgers have ONE Pride night a… pic.twitter.com/pwvgQC89Qk

— Savanah Hernandez (@sav_says_) June 17, 2023

Although the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence were honored before the majority of fans arrived, the Dodgers faced criticism for their decision. The team had initially disinvited the group but later reversed their decision and issued an apology, leading to backlash from LGBTQ organizations. In response, Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw announced the upcoming “Christian Faith and Family Day” at Dodger Stadium.

“Excited to announce the relaunch of Christian Faith and Family Day at Dodger Stadium on July 30th,” tweeted Kershaw. “More details to come—we are grateful for the opportunity to talk about Jesus and determined to make it bigger and better than before COVID. Hope to see you on July 30th!”