University of Illinois Files Motion to Dismiss Salaita Suit

The University filed a motion to dismiss Steven Salaita’s federal lawsuit on Wednesday. According to the motion, the University filed to dismiss the suit because Salaita failed to “state a claim upon which relief can be granted,” and because the court does not have jurisdiction over the case.

Salaita’s appointment to the University was rejected by the Board of Trustees on Sept. 11. The board reiterated its stance against his employment Jan. 15, and Salaita filed a federal lawsuit Jan. 29. The suit was filed in the Northern District of Illinois in Chicago.

In Salaita’s suit, nine counts are made against the University. However, the University’s motion states that Salaita does not make a claim in any of the counts, so the lawsuit should be dismissed in its entirety.

The University also stated in its motion that Salaita’s civil rights claims are invalid because no specific allegations are made against the Board of Trustees.

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