After presenting its case before a federal court earlier this month, InterVarsity awaits a ruling in their lawsuit against Wayne State University. For 75 years, InterVarsity has had a student chapter at Wayne State. In 2017, the university’s administration revoked their status, claiming the chapter’s constitution violated the school’s nondiscrimination policy because it requires their leaders to be Christians.
Wayne State has over 400 student organizations, of which dozens have requirements for membership and leadership positions based on the groups’ missions. InterVarsity is seeking equal treatment with those student groups.
“InterVarsity seeks to serve Wayne State University, its students and faculty, and the local community,” said Greg Jao, Director of External Relations at InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA. “We invite the university to embrace a common-sense understanding of its nondiscrimination policy. The policy should protect, rather than penalize, religious groups that seek to retain their religious identity on campus.”
InterVarsity Christian Fellowship is a national organization of Christian college students with over 1,100 chapters in schools throughout the United States. According to their website, InterVarsity provides a place for Christian students to gather together and practice their faith through Bible studies, worship opportunities and service projects. All students are welcome to become members and participate in its activities.
Wayne State student and InterVarsity member Deaunai Montgomery said, “As a Christian, we need our leaders to sincerely believe that what they teach us about Jesus is true.” She told Fox News after the court hearing, “To be clear, we want everyone to feel welcome to attend our group, but why should our Bible studies, prayer, and worship be led by someone who doesn’t believe those things?”