Fraternities File Lawsuit Against University Over Suspension
Four fraternities at the University of Maryland have filed a lawsuit challenging the university’s recent suspension of Greek life activities. The fraternities claim that the university’s actions infringe on their freedom of speech and due process, particularly regarding the university’s investigation into alleged unsafe practices. The lawsuit, which was submitted on behalf of three anonymous fraternity members, seeks to have a federal court intervene by issuing an injunction that would halt the university’s suspension and reinstate fraternity operations during the ongoing investigation.
In communication with fraternity and sorority leadership, university officials referenced “activities that jeopardized the safety and well-being of members” but did not explicitly use the term “hazing” in their warnings. The suspension impacts all fraternities and sororities governed by the university’s Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Council, effectively banning any communication with prospective members and prohibiting events involving alcohol. The indefinite nature of the suspension has sparked concern among the fraternities, who argue that their rights have been unjustly restricted without due process.
Legal Action Targets University’s Investigation Procedures
The fraternities’ lawsuit argues that the university violated its own Code of Student Conduct, which mandates that students accused of misconduct must be informed of the specific charges and allowed to respond to the evidence presented. The plaintiffs assert that none of these requirements were met, resulting in an indefinite suspension that places “unconstitutional restraint” on the organizations involved. Representatives of the Fraternity Forward Coalition have spoken out against the investigation, calling the university’s actions “outrageous” and unprecedented in the context of Greek life governance.
The university has stated that the suspension will remain in place throughout the investigation, which has raised concerns about the timeline and transparency of the process. As of now, a federal judge is expected to review the fraternities’ request for a temporary restraining order on Monday, while the university has promised to provide an update on the investigation to the campus community by Friday.