February 4, 2020 – The U. S. District Court in Connecticut has dismissed all claims against fraternities in a lawsuit filed by Engender and three individuals attacking single-sex membership policies. The court stated the claims “lack a strong basis in law.” This decision follows the resounding rejection of a similar Engender theory last year by the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities.
“All students should have the right to join organizations, co-ed or single-sex, that enhance their collegiate experience and make positive contributions to the local community,” said Judson Horras, president and CEO of the North American Interfraternity Conference.
Additionally, federal and state courts in Massachusetts recently concluded that Harvard’s sanctions policy against individuals who join single-sex organizations may be discriminatory and unlawful. Further, the Collegiate Freedom of Association Act has received strong bipartisan support in Congress.
Across hundreds of college campuses, millions of students and alumni have found value in belonging to single-sex organizations, from fraternities and sororities to acapella groups and academic societies.
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DOWNLOAD: Court Ruling (PDF)
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Todd Shelton
