MINNEAPOLIS (January 17, 2023): Fabian May & Anderson, PLLP, an employment and civil rights law firm based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, has commenced litigation on behalf of Erika López Prater, Ph.D., a former adjunct professor of art history at Hamline University in Saint Paul, Minnesota, alleging religious discrimination and defamation, among other claims. Dr. López Prater’s dismissal from Hamline has garnered significant attention given its implications for academic freedom at Hamline and universities around the country and all over the world. What has not been discussed, however, is how Hamline’s actions and statements may have constituted religious discrimination, defamation, and other violations of law. Hamline’s actions have caused significant damage to Dr. López Prater. In the near term, she has lost the income from her adjunct position. She alleges she also suffered significant emotional distress due to her mistreatment by Hamline. In the long term, Dr. López Prater alleges that her personal and professional reputation, and her future employment prospects, have been irreparably harmed by Hamline’s conduct. Among other things, Hamline, through its administration, has referred to Dr. López Prater’s conduct as “undeniably Islamophobic.” Comments like these, which have now been published in news stories around the globe, will follow Dr. López Prater throughout her career, potentially resulting in her inability to obtain a tenure track position at any institution of higher education. It is important to note that Hamline’s comments and actions, which have not been retracted, have been roundly condemned by academics and pro-Muslim organizations around the country.
The specifics of Dr. López Prater’s claims, and the facts supporting them, are included in the attached Complaint, which has been served on Hamline and will soon be filed in Ramsey County District Court.
Inquires may be directed to David H. Redden or Nicholas G. B. May.
About Fabian May & Anderson, PLLP: Located in downtown Minneapolis, Fabian May & Anderson, PLLP is an employment and civil rights law firm that provides experienced representation to employees and executives who have experienced discrimination, harassment, retaliation, or wage theft. The firm also provides services for those involved in contract negotiations or disputes with employers. Fabian May & Anderson, PLLP, has repeatedly been named in U.S. News’ “Best Law Firms” for its representation of employees, and its attorneys have repeatedly received local and national recognition for their zealous and ethical advocacy on behalf of its clients. Read More