Plaintiffs Can Collect From American Studies Association

, Malcolm A. Kline, Leave a comment

Former members of the American Studies Association (ASA) who are suing ASA over its resolution to Boycott, Divest from and Sanction Israel (BDS) can collect if they prevail in court, a federal judge ruled. “Because D.C. Code § 29-406.31(d) does not shield Defendants from damages, at this stage, it is legally possible for Plaintiffs to recover $75,000 if they prevail in the action,” Rudolph Contreras, U. S. District Court Judge, ruled on July 5, 2018.

He went on to state that “As of the date of this Memorandum Opinion, the case is no longer stayed, and Defendants are directed to respond to Plaintiffs’ Second Amended Complaint within 21 days. An order consistent with
this Memorandum Opinion is separately and contemporaneously issued.” So the clock is ticking on the ASA.