University asks judge to dismiss white nationalist’s lawsuit

University of Cincinnati refuses to rent space for Richard Spencer to speak on campus unless $11,000 security fee is paid

By AP 2 February 2018, 8:35 am

Edit

White nationalist Richard Spencer stirring up students during a speech at the University of Florida in Gainesville, October 19, 2017. (AP/Chris O'Meara, File)

CINCINNATI, Ohio — The University of Cincinnati is asking a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit filed by the organizer for white nationalist Richard Spencer’s campus tour, calling it meritless.

The lawsuit filed last month says the school won’t rent space for Spencer to speak on campus, unless a nearly $11,000 security fee is paid.

The lawsuit says requiring such a payment, because a speaker is controversial or prompts hostile reaction, is discriminatory and unconstitutional.

The university on Thursday questioned the lawsuit’s timing, saying the organizer hadn’t yet paid the fee or obtained the required insurance.

UC previously said it would let Spencer speak. His attorney, Kyle Bristow, says the visit is planned March 14, during spring break.