A Bakersfield College professor has initiated legal action against the Kern Community College District and its administrators, alleging a violation of his First Amendment rights. The lawsuit, filed by the Institute for Free Speech, claims the professor, Daymon Johnson, faced investigation for expressing his political beliefs after criticizing a colleague's disparaging comments about the United States.
The controversy began when another faculty member, Andrew Bond, reportedly posted a message calling America a "f---ing piece of s--- nation." Johnson responded by referring to Bond as a "social justice warrior" and suggesting Bond relocate to China if he preferred communist regimes. Following this exchange, Bond filed a complaint against Johnson for "harassment and bullying," leading to an investigation that Johnson fears could result in his termination.
The lawsuit emphasizes Johnson's apprehension about expressing his political views due to the ongoing investigation and cites the recent firing of another professor, Matthew Garrett, who had been critical of the district's antiracist initiatives. Adding fuel to the fire, Kern Community College District Vice President John S. Corkins, also named in the suit, previously made inflammatory remarks about "culling" faculty opposed to the district's diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, even using the analogy of taking them "to the slaughterhouse."
The lawsuit argues that the district's actions infringe upon Johnson's First Amendment right to free speech and seeks injunctive relief to protect him from further investigation or termination based on his political viewpoints. It contends that the college is attempting to enforce an official ideology and punish those who dissent. The suit specifically highlights Corkins' comments as evidence of a hostile environment for faculty members who disagree with the district's political stance.
While Corkins has since issued a public apology for his "slaughterhouse" remarks, claiming his intent was misconstrued, the lawsuit maintains that Johnson remains at risk of reprisal for expressing his views. The university has not yet responded to requests for comment on the lawsuit.
