Pacific Justice Institute Filed Federal Lawsuit After Employee Was Terminated for Expressing Christian Beliefs

Iowa worker challenged religious discrimination following termination over faith-based expression during Pride Month

DAVENPORT, Iowa - Pacific Justice Institute (PJI) filed a federal lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Iowa on behalf of Cosby "Corey" Cunningham III, a former employee of Eaton Corporation, who was terminated for expressing his Christian beliefs in the workplace.

The case, Cunningham v. Eaton Corporation, arose from events in 2023 during the company's Pride Month activities. According to the complaint, Eaton encouraged employees to participate in Pride-themed events and attire, which included selling Pride-themed t-shirts to the employees. In response, Mr. Cunningham wore one of several t-shirts displaying Bible verses that reflected his sincerely held religious beliefs. These t-shirts were only worn on Fridays, which were designated "casual" dress days for the employees.

Mr. Cunningham, who worked as a quality manager and oversaw aerospace-related projects, maintained a strong performance record throughout his employment. The complaint stated that his attire complied with company dress standards and was intended as an expression of his faith.

After receiving one complaint from another employee, company representatives met with Mr. Cunningham, and later informed him that his wearing t-shirts on casual dress days was considered inappropriate. Mr. Cunningham requested religious accommodations to continue expressing his beliefs through his t-shirts. The complaint stated that Eaton denied his requests and ultimately terminated his employment in August 2023.

PJI contended that the termination violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of religion, as well as protections guaranteed under the First Amendment, including protections for free speech and the free exercise of religion.

"This case reflected a growing conflict between workplace policies and fundamental freedoms," said Brad Dacus, founder and president of PJI. "Americans have the right to express their faith in daily life. When employers restrict religious expression, it raises serious constitutional concerns and calls for legal accountability."

PJI attorney Robert Anderson, who represented Mr. Cunningham, addressed the legal issues raised in the case:

"Mr. Cunningham sought to live out his faith in a manner consistent with his beliefs while continuing to perform his job responsibilities. The complaint reflected how his request for a religious accommodation was denied and how that decision led to his termination. This case addressed the protections that exist for employees under federal law."

Mr. Cunningham filed charges with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and received a right-to-sue notice prior to filing this action.

The case was resolved in May 2025, when the parties reached a settlement and the lawsuit was dismissed.

The case continues to serve as a reminder of the legal protections afforded to employees who seek to live out their faith in the workplace.

Pacific Justice Institute remains committed to defending individuals whose rights are affected by religious discrimination in the workplace.

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