Christian student organization sues North Carolina university for restricting free speech and freedom of religion

CB Condez Thursday, April 28, 2016

A Christian student organization is taking legal action against a university in North Carolina for violations against freedom of speech, freedom of religion, equal protection, and due process.

A man holds a bible during a church service. | REUTERS/SHANNON STAPLETON

The lawsuit filed by Grace Christian Life against the NC State University says that in 2015, the school told them that they are not allowed to approach and discuss religion with other students unless they get a written permission. The permission is a requirement under the university's policies on solicitation.

"College campuses, especially public universities, are supposed to be a marketplace of ideas," said Christian Dysart, legal counsel for the student group, as quoted by ABC11. "And that should mean a free flow of ideas, a spontaneous debate."

Non-profit organization Alliance Defending Freedom is handling the case and Dysart is working with them. Their complaint in behalf of the student organization states that the university's solicitation policty, otherwise known as Speech Permit Policy, "regulates expressive activity on campus." Since the Christian organization's goal "is to give an accurate picture of Jesus and His church to all people everywhere," they initiate discussions on religion and other topics with other students. They also distribute printed materials and conduct small group meetings, worship services, among others.

"The aforementioned policy and practices are challenged on their face and as
applied to Grace," the lawsuit says, and mentions the First and Fourth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution as well as the Civil Rights Act of 1871.

The legal document names W. Randolph Woodson, the Chancellor of the North Carolina State University; Warwick A. Arden, Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor; TJ Willis, Associate Director of University Student Centers; and Mike Giancola, Associate Provost as defendants. The lawsuit is requesting, among other things, an injuction to prohibit the Speech Permit Policy from being enforced, as well as damages and other costs.

The lawsuit is requesting a jury trial.