When We Fight, We Win: Why I Am Suing Northwestern University and US Government

3 hours ago

Steven W. Thrasher is suing Northwestern University, Congressman Tim Walberg, and federal government officials for violating his employment contract and civil rights, including free speech, related to his Palestine solidarity speech and LGBTQ advocacy.
The lawsuit alleges Northwestern unfairly attempted to terminate his employment multiple times under government pressure, including baseless criminal charges and denial of tenure, despite prior exoneration and positive reviews.
Thrasher claims his suspension from teaching and termination breach academic freedom guidelines and his contract, highlighting broader issues of marginalization for Black, gay, and LGBTQ individuals in academia.
The article connects the case to the genocide in Palestine, emphasizing the right to protest without livelihood loss, and cites the killing of journalist Hossam Shabat as an example of the stakes involved.
It references other successful legal challenges, such as professors winning back jobs or defending academic freedom, arguing that standing up to bullying leads to victories in court.
Thrasher accuses Northwestern of colluding with the U.S. government to suppress speech, citing trustee Michael Sacks' influence and calling for accountability under the First Amendment.

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