Diocese asks parishes, schools to break ties to Komen for the Cure

Published: 2008-02-21

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (CNS) -- Following the practice of some other dioceses, the Diocese of Little Rock is discouraging its parishes and schools from supporting fundraising activities for Susan G. Komen for the Cure. The international organization raises millions annually for the detection, treatment and research of breast cancer. A portion of the money nationally is given to Planned Parenthood for breast cancer screenings. Planned Parenthood is also the largest provider of abortions in the United States. Several parishes and schools have hosted teams for the Komen Race for the Cure, which attracts more than 43,000 participants to the 5K race in Little Rock alone each October. Another 15,000 participate in the Komen race in Springdale each April. Marianne Linane, diocesan respect life director, said a statement declaring the Respect Life Office "neither supports or encourages participation" in Komen activities was written after several inquiries from pro-life Catholics about the diocese's position. The diocese is encouraging Catholics to write to the Komen headquarters in Dallas and ask them to stop funding Planned Parenthood.

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