Rutgers today won its lawsuit against Civitas Christiana. The judge called a halt to disinformation, lies and online hatred with this verdict. According to the judge, Civitas went too far with its allegations about Rutgers, its teaching materials and Spring Fling Week. The judge vindicated Rutgers on all counts: the black book is banned and Civitas must rectify all its statements. Civitas' statements were not only incorrect but also found harmful and unlawful. This important ruling is supportive for parents, teachers and schools who all want children to grow up healthy, safe and happy.
The allegations made by Civitas were not based on anything, according to the judge. "This summary proceedings were not about a difference of opinion on parenting," says deputy director Luc Lauwers, "but about spreading fake news that actually endangers rather than protects children. Everyone is entitled to their own standards, values, opinions, beliefs and way of life. This is a great good in our democratic legal order. However, the freedom of expression and religious freedom, which Civitas appeals to, is not unlimited."
Civitas has been ordered by the court to stop making its allegations about Rutgers. Civitas must also rectify statements made earlier. "The ruling is an important step in countering disinformation, spreading lies and online hatred. And, above all, a boost for parents, teachers and schools, who all want children to grow up healthy and safe and get the information they need to determine what is and is not okay," said Luc Lauwers.
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