Matters India Reporter
Chennai, February 20, 2025 – Member of Parliament Derek O’Brien delivered a powerful speech at Loyola College’s centenary celebrations, marking World Social Justice Day, February 20.
He honored Jesuit contributions to education, justice, and democracy, dedicating his address to Fr. Jerome D’Souza and Fr. Stan Swamy and called on students to embrace Jesuit mission.
O’Brien emphasized the importance of defending the legacy of these Jesuit pioneers and speaking truth to power. In a symbolic gesture, he removed his outer shirt to reveal a T-shirt featuring Fr. Stan Swamy’s image, urging the audience to “celebrate Fr. Stan Swamy” and not be shy of their legacy.
He paid tribute to Fr. Jerome D’Souza, a member of India’s Constituent Assembly, who fought for minority and underprivileged rights. O’Brien also reminded the audience of the Jesuit martyrs of Japan, highlighting the Jesuits’ long-standing commitment to justice.
O’Brien warned of the dangers of populism, polarization, and post-truth, citing Venezuelan writer Moisés Naím and Fr. Arturo Sosa Abascal, SJ. He urged institutions to counter disinformation and protect democratic values, emphasizing that “autocrats create uncertainty, making people doubt everything except their word.”
Quoting former Jesuit General Fr. Pedro Arrupe, O’Brien challenged Jesuit institutions to ensure their education serves justice and responds to the world’s needs. He criticized the silence on Fr. Stan Swamy’s incarceration, urging Jesuit institutions to speak truth to power.
O’Brien concluded with three calls to action: First: Open institutions for human rights movements: He praised a Jesuit college in Ahmedabad for hosting activists and encouraged others to follow. Second: Reorient alumni associations: Beyond social events, alumni must engage in justice initiatives, including Fr. Stan Swamy’s cause. Third: Promote Fr. Stan Swamy’s legacy: He proposed instituting Fr. Stan Awards, Scholarships, and Memorials.
O’Brien ended with St. Ignatius of Loyola’s Prayer of Generosity, inspiring students to embrace the Jesuit mission of service and justice.