9th Circuit Sides With Christian Group in Job Discrimination Suit

9th Circuit Sides With Christian Group in Job Discrimination Suit
Above: A view of the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco on June 12, 2017. Image copyright: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

The Spin

Progressive narrative

This decision has limited implications for now, but sets a dangerous precedent. Conservative activists and religious organizations will inevitably try to expand a narrow, common-sense rule such as the ministerial exception into a broad license to discriminate and circumvent civil rights laws under the guise of religious freedom.

Conservative narrative

The 9th Circuit has simply upheld the constitutional principle that faith-based groups can choose to hire like-minded employees for positions with vital religious duties. Had this lawsuit been successful, this would have been in breach of both Title VII and the church autonomy doctrine.

Metaculus Prediction



© 2025 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.13.0

© 2025 Improve the News Foundation.

All rights reserved.

Version 6.13.0