Cardinal Cupich faces criticism over planned award for Michael Sacks

Cardinal Blase Cupich and the rector of the University of Saint Mary of the Lake are facing calls to rescind an upcoming honor for billionaire Michael Sacks. The Archdiocese of Chicago plans to present Sacks with the Nostra Aetate Award during a fundraiser on October 29 intended to support the formation of future priests.

Pro-life advocates, including the group Illinois Right to Life, have criticized the decision due to Sacks’ financial support for abortion-related organizations. Records indicate the Sacks Family Foundation donated $500,000 to Planned Parenthood of Illinois between 2020 and 2022. Additionally, reports suggest a further $600,000 contribution toward an initiative benefiting Planned Parenthood of Illinois and the Chicago Abortion Fund.

Mary Kate Zander, president of Illinois Right to Life, stated that the Archdiocese cannot credibly defend the sanctity of human life while publicly honoring an individual whose wealth supports abortion providers.