MOSCOW, Idaho — The University of Idaho’s law school is now facing a lawsuit alleging discrimination and hostility by three former students. The lawsuit, initially filed in September and refiled in December, claims that the students, all identifying as LGBTQ+, one Black and one Pacific Islander, faced discriminatory experiences and a lack of response from the institution.
According to Alexandra Duggan of the Spokesman Review, the lawsuit accuses the university, the Idaho state Board of Education, UI President Scott Green, Johanna Kalb (dean of the law school), a professor, and a former law student of Title IX violations.
One of the plaintiffs, known as “John,” reported a hostile incident during a mixer at his home in Moscow, Idaho, in 2021. A student, associated with the Christian Legal Society, allegedly used an offensive slur against LGBTQ+ individuals. Despite reporting the incident, the Office of Civil Rights and Investigations found insufficient evidence of intimidation.
Another plaintiff, “Kelly,” who is Black and LGBTQ+, reported racist comments during orientation in 2021. Additionally, a professor allegedly made inappropriate remarks. The lawsuit claims that the school did not provide any follow-up despite Kelly’s reports.
The third plaintiff, “Jane,” faced hostility during a “Moment of Community” event and received a threatening note, leading to a panic attack. The university issued a no-contact order, which was later rescinded after a legal challenge from the Christian Legal Society members.
The university has faced previous discrimination accusations, with a former law professor, Shaakirrah Sanders, filing a lawsuit in 2019, claiming mistreatment related to her gender and race. A settlement of $750,000 was reached in September 2022.
The University of Idaho declined to comment on the pending litigation, while attorneys representing the plaintiffs refrained from providing statements. Steven McFarland, Director for the Center of Law and Religious Freedom at Christian Legal Society, stated that if the accusations are true, they would be highly unfortunate, emphasizing the importance of respecting the rights of all students.
This lawsuit adds to the growing scrutiny on educational institutions, highlighting the challenges of fostering an inclusive and respectful environment for students from diverse backgrounds.