In 2009, the University of Kentucky interviewed Dr. C. Martin Gaskell for a position to run an observatory. Dr. Gaskell alleges that during the interview he was asked about his religious beliefs which inevitably became a key factor in the University’s decision to hire him or not.

This religious discrimination is demonstrated in University of Kentucky staff email correspondence which, in reference to whether the University should hire Dr. Gaskell, stated “Clearly this man is complex and likely fascinating to talk with but potentially evangelical. If we hire him, we should expect similar content to be posted on or directly linked from the department Web site.”

This is a clear violation of federal law which prohibits discrimination based on religion. Add pressure to the Gaskell v. University of Kentucky lawsuit by signing this Change.org petition telling leaders of the University to speak out publicly against those involved in Dr. Gaskell’s hiring process, and to take appropriate action.