The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit has ruled in favor of Professor Stuart Reges, affirming his First Amendment rights. This decision came in the case of Reges v. Cauce, where the court found that the University of Washington (UW) violated these rights by punishing him for his satirical remarks concerning the university’s “land acknowledgment” policy.
Background of the Case
On December 8, 2021, Professor Reges expressed his criticism of land acknowledgment statements in a message to faculty members. He subsequently parodied UW’s model land acknowledgment in his course syllabus on January 3, 2022. His syllabus included the statement that historical ownership of the land occupied by UW is minimal under the “labor theory of property,” referencing philosopher John Locke.
Court Ruling
The court’s ruling on December 19, 2025, aimed to protect academic freedom. The Ninth Circuit overturned a prior decision from a federal district court, emphasizing that universities cannot penalize faculty for expressing contentious views. The ruling stated that student discomfort does not justify punitive actions against professors.
Significance of the Decision
- The court highlighted the importance of debate and disagreement as essential elements of higher education.
- It asserted that students should be exposed to a range of perspectives, even those that may be offensive or distressing.
FIRE, a nonprofit organization advocating for free speech in academic settings, represented Reges. According to FIRE attorney Gabe Walters, this legal victory underscores that universities cannot compel professors to conform to institutional views under threat of punishment.
Implications for Academic Freedom
The ruling serves as a clear message about the protection of free speech in educational environments. Judge Daniel Bress emphasized that robust discussions are a core feature of academia. As quoted, “exposure to views that distress and offend is a form of education unto itself.”
This case exemplifies the ongoing debates surrounding free speech and academic freedom within universities, reiterating the need for institutions to uphold these fundamental rights.
Contact Information
For further information or media inquiries, contact:
- Karl de Vries
- Director of Media Relations, FIRE
- Phone: 215-717-3473
