Universities Weblog

Despite continued protests, UW Madison defends its decision not to allow the student group the Knights of Columbus to operate on campus, as the organization allows only Catholic men to acquire membership, which does not comply with UW Madison's anti-discrimination laws.

Nagy said UW-Madison has tightened its enforcement of requirements of non-discrimination and student control as a result of a 2000 U.S. Supreme Court ruling involving its use of student fees. He said six to 12 of the university's 750 recognized student groups will not be in compliance if they do not change policies.

A lack of recognition means a group cannot rent space on campus, recruit students at UW-sponsored events or use the school's name in its title. Such groups also cannot qualify for student fees, although the Knights of Columbus have never been funded.

The university's stance could signal that a legal battle looms between the school and religious groups.

What do you think? Is the university's decision merely another form of discrimination, or are they doing the 'right' thing? Are there any groups on your campus that you feel should not be there, or are there any groups you feel are unfairly discriminated against?

You can learn more about the Knights of Columbus here.

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