Fordham University won its long legal battle to deny Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) club recognition when New York’s highest court affirmed an appellate division decision in favor of the university.

The May 4 refusal by the New York State Court of Appeals to hear the case effectively ends a long battle that began in 2015 when an application to form the club was filed. 

The university denied the request the following year citing SJP’s “political goals” and “polarizing” nature.

The court decision upheld the university’s procedures and standards for granting club recognition.

“Fordham University is pleased that the court validated the university’s administrative processes regarding the formation of student clubs,” said Bob Howe, university assistant vice president for communications and special adviser to the president, in a statement to The Jewish Link. 

“Fordham is committed to serving all of its students, both in and out of the classroom. The university did not and does not believe that a chapter of SJP is in the best interests of its students.”

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