Sen. Dick Durbin Declines Lifetime Achievement Award Amid Controversy
Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) has opted not to accept the “Lifetime Achievement Award” for his contributions to immigration reform, which was set to be presented by Cardinal Blase J. Cupich of Chicago. This decision follows significant backlash from various Catholic bishops and organizations due to Durbin’s longstanding support for abortion rights.
In a statement released on September 30, Durbin turned down the award, which was expected to be announced during the Archdiocese’s “Keep Hope Alive” event in November. The award was to be presented by the Archdiocese’s Departments of Human Dignity, Solidarity, and Immigration.
“I am saddened by this news, but I respect his decision,” Cardinal Cupich remarked, emphasizing that the award recognized Durbin’s unique contributions to immigration reform and his essential support for it during current times.
The Cardinal noted that a stance of full condemnation does not foster productive dialogue, calling for a more encouraging approach to inspire recipients to broaden their efforts to address various societal issues. Cupich stressed the importance of finding common ground, as divisive discourse can prevent meaningful collaboration.
He pointed out that the current impasse hampers the Church’s ability to advocate for human dignity across all arenas. According to him, pressing issues—like the welfare of children, the sick, immigrants, and those facing death—demand attention through inclusive dialogue, something he feels has been urged by the late Pope Francis.
The archdiocese’s decision to withdraw the award came shortly after remarks from Pope Leo XIV regarding Cupich’s initial intention to honor Durbin. Bishop Thomas J. Paprocki of Springfield referred to the plan to award Durbin as “a scam,” reiterating that the Church should not support individuals who contradict core moral principles. He expressed that such honors suggest approval of actions that go against Catholic doctrine.
Bishop James Johnston of Kansas City also criticized the decision, stating that honoring Durbin is incompatible with Catholic social teachings. He voiced concerns that it sends mixed messages about the sanctity of life.
Additionally, Archbishop Joseph Naumann of Kansas City described the situation as a “source of scandal,” asserting that it is inappropriate to reward politicians who champion pro-abortion policies. Several other bishops joined this criticism, emphasizing that the Church’s support should align with respect for the fundamental human right to life.
In the wake of these events, Students for Life, a prominent pro-life organization, publicly condemned Cupich’s decision. The President of the organization noted the irony in awarding someone who endorses policies that threaten lives, urging the Archdiocese to reconsider and distance itself from Durbin’s stances.
