A former dean of students at Campus Middle School in Cherry Creek School District has filed a lawsuit after being fired for expressing pro-American views during a mandatory Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training. The lawsuit, filed by America First Legal on behalf of Patrick Hogarty, alleges that the district violated his First Amendment rights by retaliating against him for stating that he believes the U.S. is “the greatest country in the world.”

During the January 2024 training, Hogarty was reportedly asked about his experience as a white American and responded by affirming his pride in the United States. His answer was reported by Cherry Creek’s equity director, who accused him of using “racist undertones,” according to the complaint. Two months later, the district eliminated Hogarty’s position, citing “budgetary reasons.” Hogarty was later placed on administrative leave for “unprofessional conduct” when he challenged the layoff.

Ian Prior, senior advisor for America First Legal, condemned the district’s actions, stating, “Cherry Creek has replaced the Bill of Rights with the ‘DEI Manifesto,’ and teachers, students, and parents are being silenced for standing up for the values that make America great.”

The lawsuit argues that Hogarty’s termination was politically motivated, as his patriotic expression clashed with the district’s DEI-driven narrative, which, according to the suit, frames America as a “systematically racist nation.” The case highlights growing concerns about free speech in educational settings, as school districts across the country increasingly adopt DEI programs that critics say stifle dissenting views.

Hogarty’s legal team is fighting to ensure that his constitutional right to free speech is upheld, asserting that his firing was a direct violation of his First Amendment protections. The outcome of the case could have far-reaching implications for educators who feel pressured to conform to political ideologies in schools.