Chapman v. Thomas

743 F.2d 1056 (1984)

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Chapman v. Thomas

United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit
743 F.2d 1056 (1984)

  • Written by Mike Begovic, JD

Facts

North Carolina State University (NC State) (defendant) implemented a policy prohibiting door-to-door solicitation in student dormitories. An exception was granted to students running for certain student-government positions, allowing them to solicit door-to-door during a two-week period. The policy permitted solicitation in the lobbies and waiting parlors of dormitories. Scott Chapman (plaintiff) was an NC State student and member of the Church of Christ. In an effort to promote his faith and encourage attendance at bible discussions, Chapman went from door-to-door through various dormitories, talking to students. NC State, after receiving several complaints, informed Chapman that he was violating its solicitation policy. NC State did nothing else to restrict Chapman’s ability to speak on campus. Chapman filed suit against NC State and various administrators, alleging a violation of his First Amendment rights of freedom of speech and religion. Chapman argued that NC State’s policy treated him differently because certain individuals were allowed to solicit door-to-door if they fell within the exception. A district court granted summary judgment to NC State. Chapman appealed the ruling.

Rule of Law

Issue

Holding and Reasoning (Phillips, J.)

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