November 26, 2019 | Categories: Litigation, Press Release | Tags: Alpha Omicron Pi, disability, Disability Rights, east lansing, Emotional Support Animal, Fair Housing Center of Southeast & Mid Michigan, Michigan State University
According to the complaint taken by the FHC in the fall of 2017, although Kayla Hicks’ need for an emotional support animal was well documented, East Lansing sorority Alpha Omicron Pi (AOII) refused to allow her to live with her emotional support animal, a two-pound Netherland Dwarf Rabbit named Sebastian.
The FHC-aided lawsuit was settled in September 2019 for an undisclosed amount. The Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) was also a part of the case and their charge was also resolved.
According to the settlement agreement with the MDCR, “fraternity and sorority houses…are not excluded from the [Michigan Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act] provisions prohibiting discrimination based on disability or any other protected classifications.” AOII has agreed to create written policies with regard to assistance animals, and accommodate members with disabilities at all AOII sorority houses in Michigan.
Read the official FHC Press Release
“MSU sorority settlement reached,” The State News, 11/20/2019
“MSU sorority settles lawsuit over banished therapy rabbit,” Detroit Free Press, 11/20/2019