Student sues University of Chicago over suspension
A student has taken legal action against the University of Chicago, claiming he was suspended for his involvement in a free-Palestine protest.
Fourth-year student Manuel Rivera filed a lawsuit on Jan. 14, alleging the university violated his First Amendment rights.
The lawsuit also alleges that the institution violated Illinois housing laws by removing him from campus housing and placing him on involuntary leave.
According to court documents, Rivera was evicted from his dorm on Oct. 21, but he claims university officials falsified records to suggest he had until December to vacate.
He is suing the university, interim Dean of Students Michael Hayes, and two campus police officers.
Rivera is seeking more than $50,000 in damages for alleged unlawful eviction and retaliation.
Last year’s Oct. 11 protest, marking the one-year anniversary of Israel’s assault on Gaza turned violent when police clashed with demonstrators.
Police used pepper spray and batons, while Rivera was photographed allegedly kicking a Chicago police officer.
He now faces an aggravated battery charge.
Legal experts suggest UChicago dorms may be exempt from city housing laws, potentially weakening Rivera’s case.
The university has not commented, citing ongoing litigation.
The lawsuit is the second civil rights complaint against UChicago related to Free Palestine activism in the past year.
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