Overview

• Tim Bakken filed the federal case on Sept. 22 in Manhattan seeking class-action status for civilian faculty, an injunction halting the policies, and unspecified damages.
• The complaint says West Point issued an Academic Engagement Policy on Feb. 13 requiring prior approval before faculty speak publicly or publish in an official capacity.
• The filing alleges the academy restricted use of its affiliation or branding for public commentary, withdrew books from the library, edited syllabi, cut courses and majors, and directed instructors not to express opinions in class.
• Bakken links the tighter controls to a January executive order from President Donald Trump directing reviews of leadership, curricula, and instructors at U.S. service academies.
• West Point did not immediately respond to requests for comment, and the suit seeks relief on behalf of more than 100 civilian faculty members.