October 3, 2006
Opening Remarks
Alec Hill
For over 40 years, a student group affiliated with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship has been active at the University of Wisconsin-Superior. That is until eight months ago – when the group was de-recognized.
The university’s action was taken simply because InterVarsity requires its student leaders – not members, but just leaders – to sign our Statement of Faith.
Frankly, the university’s position defies common sense. Does this mean, for example, Hillel (Jewish students) must accept Holocaust-deniers as leaders? That the Young Democrats must accept Republicans as leaders?
After months of failed attempts to resolve this situation, the UW-Superior chapter of InterVarsity yesterday filed suit in federal court to seek reinstatement as a fully recognized student organization.
Three years ago, our student leaders at Rutgers University faced exactly the same situation. After several months – and before trial – Rutgers reversed course and re-recognized the group. It is our sincere hope that common sense will likewise prevail in this situation.
