Honor Society® Champions Free Speech. Phi Theta Kappa's Overreach Rebuffed

(MENAFN- PR Newswire) "Phi Theta Kappa's aggressive approach to censor open dialogue is disconcerting," said Mike Moradian, Executive Director of Honor Society. "No student-focused organization should stifle free speech. Nonprofits must champion transparency and collaboration-not suppress honest criticism."

When an institution silences outsiders instead of addressing its problems, it betrays the students it promises to serve.

Post thi

Court Labels PTK Injunction "Overbroad Prior Restraint"

PTK's now-invalid injunction placed shockingly broad restrictions on how Honor Society could discuss the organization and its lawsuit. According to the appellate court, these measures went well beyond any acceptable scope, effectively functioning as a blanket prohibition rather than a narrowly tailored remedy. Requiring Honor Society to attach PTK's "disclaimer" to every reference of PTK or the lawsuit was likewise rejected as unconstitutional compelled speech.

PTK's Injunction Incompatible with Free Speech Principles, Court Finds

Phi Theta Kappa promotes itself as dedicated to academic excellence, yet it took sweeping steps to muzzle truthful discussion about itself. The Fifth Circuit firmly deemed the injunction incompatible with free-speech principles. "By pouring considerable resources into silencing critics-particularly egregious for a nonprofit intended to serve the public good-PTK's actions prompt serious concerns about its true priorities," Moradian said.

A Win for Students and Free Expression

With PTK's sweeping first amendment restriction now annulled, the case returns to the district court for any remaining proceedings. This outcome reaffirms Honor Society's right to speak truthfully, underscoring that attempts to curb open dialogue-rather than confronting legitimate scrutiny-will not stand.

"Our victory here is bigger than us," Moradian said. "When an institution silences outsiders instead of confronting its own problems, it betrays the very students it promises to serve. This ruling rallies free speech advocates seeking public accountability."

With the injunction lifted, Honor Society remains steadfast in defending the First Amendment and fostering transparent discourse-values essential to higher education and civic engagement. The organization calls on PTK to reconsider any further strategies aimed at stifling conversation, advocating instead for genuine collaboration and a renewed focus on student empowerment.

About Honor Society®

Honor Society is dedicated to community, leadership, and service among students and professionals. Through exclusive benefits, career development tools, and networking opportunities, the organization aims to uplift members. Honor Society upholds the spirit of open dialogue, and intellectual freedom-cornerstone values of a robust academic community.

Media Contact

Mike Moradian

(424) 226-2411

[email protected]

Legal Disclaimer: The statements above reflect Honor Society's understanding of publicly available information related to Case No. 24-60452 in the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. PTK's claims and Honor Society's counterclaims remain subject to further proceedings in the district court. Interested parties should consult official court filings for additional details.

SOURCE Honor Society

MENAFN14042025003732001241ID1109428256