A professor from Northwestern University has filed a federal lawsuit alleging retaliation and discrimination due to his pro-Palestinian activism. Steven Thrasher, an assistant professor, claims the university denied him tenure under pressure from federal officials. The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois and accuses the university of breaching Thrasher’s employment contract and violating his academic freedom.
Details of the Allegations
Thrasher states the university’s actions were influenced by federal pressure and that he faced discrimination based on his sexual orientation, race, and association with Palestinian people. The lawsuit also lists U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg, U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche, and U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as defendants.
Thrasher faced several disciplinary investigations and a suspension following protests against the Israel-Hamas War in 2024. He participated in student-led demonstrations, which led to internal disciplinary charges and the denial of tenure.
Timeline of Events
Thrasher was appointed to the chair position in 2019. In 2024, he was temporarily suspended, and multiple disciplinary cases ensued until 2025. The first disciplinary case, related to his involvement in an encampment speech, was closed after a committee found no basis for action. Despite this, he was informed in 2025 that his tenure appeal was denied, a decision he challenged without success.
The lawsuit claims that Thrasher was informed he would not be teaching during the 2025-26 academic year and would face employment termination in August 2025. Thrasher argues the university effectively blacklisted him from academia, causing significant economic and reputational damage.
Seeking Redress
Thrasher seeks reinstatement to a tenured position or compensation for lost wages and benefits. He also requests injunctions against future faculty terminations and suppression of speech on campus. Additionally, he aims to invalidate a 2025 agreement between the university and the federal government addressing antisemitism and funding restoration.
Broader Implications
Thrasher hopes the case sets a legal precedent addressing discrimination when people speak on controversial topics. He emphasizes that race, gender, and sexuality should not influence punitive actions. Thrasher believes this lawsuit could prevent similar situations from occurring at other institutions.