Partial legal victory for student rejected by college, in part because of comment on faith
March 25, 2015
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A federal district court has permitted a lawsuit against officials of the Community College of Baltimore County to proceed.
During an interview for entrance into a radiation therapy program, Brandon Jenkins was asked, “What is the most important thing to you?” He answered, “My God.” The interview then proceeded to other topics.
After he was rejected by the program, Jenkins e-mailed the program director to ask why he was rejected. She cited various reasons, including his remark in the interview, writing:
I understand that religion is a major part of your life and that was evident in your recommendation letters, however, this field is not the place for religion. We have many patients who come to us for treatment from many different religions and some who believe in nothing at all. If you interview in the future, you may want to leave your thoughts and beliefs out of the interview process.
The district court ruled that Jenkins’s lawsuit could proceed on establishment-clause grounds but not on free speech or free exercise grounds.
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Further information:
- College Admission Denial Because of Religious References In Interview Supports Establishment Clause Claim (Religion Clause)
- ACLJ Files Lawsuit On Behalf of Student Denied College Admission Because of His Faith (ACLJ)
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Posted by: Leopardi -
Mar. 26, 2015 10:08 PM ET USA
Actually, FredC, nobody's entitled to personal information about your relationship with God unless you're willing to tell them. I'm just advising more discretion on the matter.
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Posted by: FredC -
Mar. 26, 2015 12:04 PM ET USA
Sounds as if Leopardi wants applicants to lie if their faith is their prime motivation.
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Posted by: garedawg -
Mar. 26, 2015 10:21 AM ET USA
Ask a personal question, get a personal answer.
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Posted by: Thomas429 -
Mar. 25, 2015 10:28 PM ET USA
I am uncomfortable in playing in the federal court(s). A very undesirable outcome can result. But, I hope he wins.
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Posted by: Leopardi -
Mar. 25, 2015 5:51 PM ET USA
Actually, he got good advice from the program director. God being of prime importance is well and good...even appropriate; but "wearing it on your sleeve" is 'gratuitous' and risks just what he got.