Former CIR Plaintiff Rebecca Friedrichs Talks About Case at White House

On Monday December 9, 2019, former Center for Individual Rights plaintiff Rebecca Friedrichs visited the White House for a roundtable discussion on school choice with President Donald Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, and Education Secretary Betsy DeVos.

During her remarks to the President, Friedrichs talked about Friedrichs v. California Teachers Association, a case brought by CIR and heard by the U.S. Supreme Court in February 2016. The case challenged forced union dues – known as “agency fees” – arguing that they were a violation of non-union members’ First Amendment Rights. The case ultimately deadlocked in a 4-4 vote after the passing of Justice Antonin Scalia, but paved the way for Janus v. AFSCME which ended forced union dues in June 2018.

“Ten courageous teachers stood in defense of children and our beloved profession. We were poised to win, but Justice Scalia’s death led to a tragic deadlock in our case. But we blazed the trail for another case. And thanks to you, President Trump, and your appointment of Justice Gorsuch, all teachers are now free from forced unionism.” – Rebecca Friedrichs, lead plaintiff in Friedrichs v. California Teachers Association