by Jorge Gomez • 1 minute
First Liberty secured a victory this week for our client Stephen Atkerson, who’ll once again be able to freely share his Christian faith at Georgia State University.
In December, a university representative and three armed police officers forced Stephen to end a conversation with a student outside of the designated Free Speech Zone. On that rainy day, the student had invited Stephen to sit at a table outside the dining area. They’d previously had several conversations about the Bible and religion.
The university ordered Stephen to immediately return to the Free Speech Zone or else be escorted off campus. What’s more, the university engagement coordinator told him he couldn’t approach students even within that designated space. Stephen was told that the Free Speech Zone was the only place he could have a religious conversation, even when students invited him to talk elsewhere.
When he visits GSU to share his faith, he does not preach, use amplification, speak loudly or force his beliefs on anyone. Stephen’s ministry is all about having friendly, one-on-one conversations with those who want to talk.
Our attorneys sent a letter urging the university to reverse its overbearing restrictions. We explained that Americans don’t need government permission when two people want to have a conversation about religion. The First Amendment protects the free exchange of ideas – all ideas.
On Tuesday, the university notified us it will allow Stephen to talk with students on campus about his Christian faith when invited by students to engage in conversation.
“We’re grateful that the University understands the protections of the First Amendment, which allows for the free exchange of ideas, even when those ideas are based in faith,” said First Liberty Senior Counsel Nate Kellum. “Stephen is thrilled to be able to continue his ministry to college students.”
Thank you for supporting First Liberty. You’re the driving force that helps deliver these crucial victories. Wins like these are incredibly significant to those involved. They make a big difference in the lives of Americans who want to exercise their constitutional rights and live in liberty.
It’s through these victories that we see some of the most meaningful impact, because collectively, these wins all add up to help protect religious liberty for millions of Americans.
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