Article Summary –
The Benedictine Sisters of Erie have actively participated in social justice movements for decades, often facing criticism for their stances, and are now confronting unfounded allegations of voter fraud from Republican operative Cliff Maloney, who falsely claimed that no one resided at their monastery. Despite these accusations, which were widely shared on social media, the sisters have refuted the claims by confirming the continuous residence of 55 nuns since 1970 and have sought legal counsel for defamation. As Pennsylvania plays a crucial role in the upcoming presidential election, the sisters emphasize the importance of critical thinking and dialogue to counter misinformation and foster community.
The Benedictine Sisters of Erie have consistently stood firm in their beliefs, from marching for civil rights in the 1960s to advocating for climate change policies and participating in Black Lives Matter protests. Despite criticism, these nuns continue to voice their convictions.
Sister Linda Romey, communications coordinator for the Benedictine Sisters, noted, “Our sisters supported civil rights during Vietnam, even when it led to backlash like parents withdrawing students and halting donations.” The sisters remain committed to their principles, never anticipating they’d battle false voter fraud allegations.
On Oct. 22, Cliff Maloney, a Republican operative with the Pennsylvania Chase, falsely claimed on social media that no one lived at the monastery, asserting it was a site for illegal votes.
Maloney’s post, which accused Democrats of relying on illegal votes, went viral, surprising the nuns. “This claim is factually disproved,” Romey stated. “We’ve lived here since 1970, with 55 nuns currently residing with no political ties.”
Immediately, the sisters issued a statement affirming their residence at the monastery. “A web search shows our active presence,” said Sister Stephanie Schmidt, the prioress. Maloney did not comment, though he later told a reporter he was “working to confirm” the sisters’ residence.
The sisters are pursuing legal action for defamation. Maloney’s claims arise amid ongoing Republican disinformation about elections, echoing false narratives after the 2020 vote. Such disinformation has led to threats against election officials nationwide.
Trump, the Republican presidential candidate, continues disseminating disinformation about the Nov. 5 election, which analysts warn could undermine public trust and incite violence. Pennsylvania, a critical swing state with 19 electoral votes, remains central in this narrative. Erie County is especially watched, with polls showing a tight race between Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris.
The sisters hope for a peaceful election and plan to combat disinformation post-Nov. 5. Romey emphasizes “slow thinking,” urging people to question social media information and engage in meaningful dialogue about democracy and identity. She invites Maloney to lunch, embodying their commitment to community-building.
“We aim to foster community through honest conversation and understanding,” said Romey. “It’s about asking questions and truly listening to others to grasp what makes us human.”
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