Washington University: Mandatory University Viewpoint
The Student Bar Association (SBA) at Washington University School of Law voted 27-6, with 4 abstentions, to recognize Law Students Pro-Life. This vote overturned two earlier decisions that denied recognition to Law Students Pro-Life, the critical first vote having been 27-10-1 against the group. In a September 9, 2002 letter of rejection to Law Students Pro-Life, the SBA termed "the catching issue" what they labeled "the narrowness of the group's interests and goals." The SBA "felt that the organization was not touching on all possible Pro-Life issues" because it did not have an "anti-death penalty" position in its constitution. FIRE wrote the chancellor of Washington University and the dean of the law school objecting because the SBA had engaged in a double standard and had violated Washington University's commitment to free speech and free religion. After receiving no response, FIRE took the case public, formed an alliance with the Eastern Missouri ACLU and organized a petition signed by professors, law students, undergraduates, and private citizens from around the country. "FIRE's advocacy made all the difference," said Jordan Siverd, chairman of Law Students Pro-Life.
Case Materials
"Victory for Conscience and Legal Equality at Washington University, Saint Louis," FIRE Press Release, October 15, 2002: In a dramatic and complete reversal, the Student Bar Association at Washington University School of Law voted 27-6, with 4 abstentions, to recognize Law Students Pro-Life. This vote overturned two earlier decisions that denied recognition to the student group, the critical first vote having been 27-10-1 against the group. FIRE advised Law Students Pro-Life throughout the process and organized a widespread campaign to restore the students to their rights. The University and the School of Law were unable to defend in public what they practiced in private. FIRE wishes that they had acted, at the start, from moral principle rather than from expedience. Nonetheless, it is a great victory for liberty.
"Double Standard at Washington University, Saint Louis," FIRE Press Release, October 9, 2002: The official Student Bar Association (SBA) at Washington University in Saint Louis, acting for the University, has twice denied recognition to Law Students Pro-Life. It refused recognition because the students would not adopt the SBA’s view of what their political and moral views ought to be. Administrators have refused to reverse a scandalous decision that disgraces a great university. Stay tuned
