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The American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) recently won a case representing a Jewish student at the State University of New York (SUNY). In November 2023, the student was called for a meeting by a school dean after a complaint was lodged against her for wearing an “IDF” T-shirt, showing support for the Israel Defense Forces.
Despite other students wearing similarly expressive clothing in support of Hamas or Gaza without repercussions, only the Jewish student faced criticism. Seeking assistance, the student contacted the ACLJ.
Upon reviewing the case, the ACLJ intervened, emphasizing the student’s right to equal treatment and freedom of expression, especially since the school lacked specific dress code rules regarding symbols, flags, or political speech. The school acknowledged the student’s right to wear the IDF T-shirt and admitted fault in singling her out. Subsequently, the dean addressed the issue with other students who had worn expressive attire, emphasizing the school’s preference to keep politics out of the classroom while confirming the absence of a dress code.
The ACLJ commended the swift action taken by the school to rectify the situation and affirmed the absence of wrongdoing on the student’s part. Consequently, the student can freely express her viewpoints, including support for Israel, and attend classes without facing further issues.
