Some Indiana college leaders speak out about state's 'religious freedom' law

Gov. Mike Pence, who signed the law, has in several interviews with news organizations referred to the University of Notre Dame and its lawsuit against the federal government over the 2010 Affordable Care Act as a reason for the law. The lawsuit challenges provisions of federal law thatrequires institutions to offer insurance coverage for contraceptionin violation of their religious views.

The Rev. John I. Jenkins, Notre Dame's president, wasn't available Tuesday for comment about the law and the widespread public debate about its potential implications.

University spokesman Paul Browne provided the following written statement Tuesday evening: "Notre Dame’s name has been invoked with regard to Indiana's version of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. While the university does not comment on specific pieces of state legislation, and had no role in the passage of the Indiana statute, we reiterate our commitment as a Catholic university to maintaining a community where all are welcome and valued, to combating unjust discrimination wherever it occurs, and to respecting all rights, including but not limited to the foundational right to free exercise of religion."

Some Indiana college leaders are speaking out strongly against the law.

Indiana University President Michael McRobbie issued a statement Sunday saying the religious freedom law "has brought significant negative attention to the state of Indiana throughout the nation and indeed the world, because the law is widely viewed as signaling an unwelcoming and discriminatory atmosphere in our state."

As a result, McRobbie said, all public officials and public institutions need to reaffirm their commitment to fair treatment and non-discrimination. “For its part, Indiana University remains steadfast in our long-standing commitment to value and respect the benefits of a diverse society. It is a fundamental core value of our culture at Indiana University and one that we cherish."