Written by Don Byrd
Overturning a lower court’s decision, the 6th Circuit ruled against Eastern Michigan University and in favor of a counseling student, expelled over her request to refer a patient to another counselor rather than discuss the patient’s same-sex relationship. A unanimous panel of the court ruled that the American Counseling Association rules do not prohibit referrals as the school argued, and sent the case back to the trial court for more hearings.
Religion News Service reports on the reactions of the parties :
The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, which has helped defend [Julea] Ward, hailed the ruling as a victory for religious freedom.
“No individual should be forced out of their profession solely because of her religious beliefs,” said Eric Rassbach, the Becket Fund’s national litigation director.
The Ypsilanti, Mich.-based university issued a statement noting that the court has not ruled in favor of Ward, but rather called for more legal consideration.
“This case has never been about religion or religious discrimination,” the university said. “It is not about homosexuality or sexual orientation. This case is about what is in the best interest of a person who is in need of counseling.”
You can read the decision (pdf) here.
