SANTA CRUZ, California – A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by former University of Toronto professor J.D. Haltigan against the University of California, Santa Cruz, challenging its mandatory Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) statement requirement for academic job applicants. Haltigan, represented by the Pacific Legal Foundation, alleged the policy violated his First Amendment rights by acting as an unconstitutional "loyalty oath" or ideological litmus test. The lawsuit was dismissed on grounds of standing, as Haltigan had not formally completed an application for the position.
Haltigan, a developmental psychologist, initiated the legal action after observing the requirement for a DEI statement in a job posting for a psychology professor at UC Santa Cruz. He contended that his personal beliefs in "colorblind inclusivity, viewpoint diversity, and merit-based evaluation" would preclude him from successfully navigating the university's DEI rubric. This, he argued, effectively compelled him to express views contrary to his own to be considered for employment.
The lawsuit named University of California President Michael Drake, UC Santa Cruz Chancellor Cynthia Larive, and other university officials as defendants. The Pacific Legal Foundation, a conservative nonprofit, supported Haltigan's case, asserting that such DEI statements force applicants to endorse specific socio-political ideologies. This legal challenge is part of a growing trend of lawsuits across the country targeting DEI policies in academic and corporate settings.
While dismissing the case, the federal judge did not rule on the merits of the DEI statement requirement itself or its potential First Amendment implications. Haltigan has been granted leave to amend his complaint or pursue an appeal. University officials have consistently affirmed their commitment to DEI initiatives, stating that these policies are crucial for fostering academic excellence and supporting a diverse student body.