A student from the University of Oklahoma claims that his First Amendment rights were violated by a failing grade he received for an essay that referenced the Bible. In response, the university has placed a male instructor, who identifies as a woman, on administrative leave while they investigate the situation.
As reported, Samantha Hrunecki got a score of 0 out of 25 for her essay where she argued that traditional gender roles shouldn’t be labeled as “stereotypes.” This was in reaction to an article discussing societal perceptions of gender.
In her essay, she reportedly cited the Bible to back her argument that “eliminating gender roles is detrimental as it deviates from God’s intended design for humanity.”
Mel Kurth, the instructor in question, argued that Hrunecki’s work lacked empirical support and found parts of the essay offensive.
However, Hrunecki maintained that the assignment did not require empirical citations and expressed her belief that the University of Oklahoma’s policies support free speech, even if some might be offended. She felt her grade was a result of quoting the Bible.
“To me, this seems like discrimination against my beliefs and my right to free speech, especially regarding my religious views. I think that’s just absurd,” Hrunecki stated.
In her essay, she referenced Genesis, stating, “God said it wasn’t good for man to be alone; He created man’s helper, which is woman. Some assume that the term ‘helper’ is derogatory to women.”
She further explained that the original Hebrew term ‘ezer kenegd’ translates to ‘helper equal to.’ Additionally, she noted that God uses ‘ezer kenegd’ to describe Himself and that the Holy Spirit is also referred to as a helper.
“God doesn’t see women as inferior to men. He created both with intention, depicting women as helpers who share in His beauty,” Hrunecki added.
“If embracing this role means I’m ‘conforming to a gender stereotype,’ then I am glad to embrace a stereotype that aligns with the gifts God has given me as a woman,” she concluded.
The University of Oklahoma has addressed the matter, indicating that they promptly began a comprehensive review after receiving information about the grading issue.
The university stated, “We acted swiftly to review the academic concern and communicated with the student on the day we received the letter. We have maintained consistent communication throughout.” They also mentioned that a formal grade appeal process took place and steps have been taken to prevent academic harm to students in the future.
Regarding allegations of discrimination based on religious beliefs, the university confirmed it has a defined procedure for such reviews, which is currently being updated. The graduate instructor has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of this process, with a full-time professor assigned to teach the class for the rest of the term.
“OU is dedicated to fairness, respect, and the protection of all students’ rights to express their sincerely held religious beliefs,” the university added.
The Turning Point USA chapter at the University of Oklahoma, established by the conservative activist Charlie Kirk, responded to the incident, highlighting that the instructor identifies as transgender.
Their statement mentioned that the instructor claimed Hrunecki’s essay lacked empirical evidence and that various sections were considered offensive.
The group expressed solidarity with Hrunecki, asserting that students should not have instructors exhibiting mental instability. They also contended that this professor appears unable to separate personal biases from the grading process, which they believe stifles conservative voices in academic settings.
