Admiral and Wright v. University of Texas at Dallas, et al.

Summary

On May 1, 2024, students and faculty at the University of Texas at Dallas organized a peaceful pro-Palestinian encampment on campus. Professors Ben Wright and Rosemary Admiral positioned themselves between heavily armed law enforcement and students to de-escalate tensions. Despite their non-violent actions, both were arrested, detained in jail, and released under bond. Following their release, the university restricted their access to campus, allowing entry only for teaching classes or employment-related activities. The professors reported that the restrictions were vague and severely limited their ability to conduct research, meet with students, or perform normal academic duties, causing ongoing anxiety, emotional distress, and disruption to their professional lives.

On October 20, 2025, Wright and Admiral filed a federal lawsuit against the university, the University of Texas System, state officials including the governor and attorney general, and campus leadership. The complaint alleged violations of their constitutional and statutory rights, including unlawful arrest under the Fourth Amendment, retaliation for engaging in protected speech and assembly under the First Amendment, and discrimination based on religion and national origin. The professors also claimed breach of employment protections and sought the removal of campus restrictions as well as damages for emotional distress, reputational harm, and professional disruption.

The complaint detailed that the arrests occurred despite the encampment following campus policy and that the university’s response was influenced by external political pressure. It described the arrest conditions as harsh, including prolonged detention and a lack of clarity about potential legal consequences. The professors emphasized the lasting impact on their ability to teach, conduct research, and maintain professional relationships. They also reported ongoing mental distress and fear resulting from the arrest and restrictive measures, noting that these effects continued well over a year after the incident.

Assistant professor Ali Asgar Alibhai also filed a lawsuit against the University of Texas at Dallas arising from the same May 1, 2024, pro-Palestinian protest.