Professor raises funds for legal expenses

More than $9,000 donated for “academic freedom and freedom from harassment and abuse”

By MAGGIE EASTLAND and RYAN PETERS editor-in-chief and managing editor

Editor’s note: This article includes excerpts of strong language.

w hen Tamara Kay posted a sign on her door advocating her office as a “safe space to get help and information on all healthcare issues and access — confidentially and with care & compassion,” she unleashed a media firestorm that found its way to national headlines.

Kay says the aftermath has pushed her to weigh legal action against the university and the irish rover. in december, she hired a lawyer. in January, fellow global affairs professor susan st. ville organized a gofundme page that, as of april 4, has raised $9,422 to support Kay’s potential legal expenses. around $1,000 of those donations poured in after The cut published a story about Kay’s grievances with the university on monday.

“at this point, the cost of retaining legal representation has placed a significant burden on prof. Kay and her family,” the page says. “we are seeking funds to offset the legal costs professor Kay is incurring as she tries to secure the protection for safety and academic freedom not only for herself but for all notre dame faculty, staff and students.”

The online fundraising page states any funding that exceeds legal costs will be donated to organizations that support survivors of indian residential schools, including the legacy of