Federal Judge Dismisses All of Turman’s Gender Discrimination Claims and Rules in Abyssinian’s Favor

A federal court dismissed and rejected Dr. Eboni Marshall Turman’s gender discrimination lawsuit against Abyssinian Baptist Church, ruling that the First Amendment’s ministerial exception protects the church’s pastor selection and reinforcing that anti-discrimination laws cannot override religious autonomy.

Dear Abyssinian Family,

We are grateful for your continued faith, prayer, and steadfast commitment to the mission and ministry of The Abyssinian Baptist Church.

We write to share an important update regarding the gender discrimination lawsuit filed against the church in 2023. As of March 31, 2025, the case, Marshall Turman v. The Abyssinian Baptist Church et al, has been formally dismissed by Judge Dale E. Ho of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.

We are grateful for the court’s decision and for the closure it brings to this matter. Throughout the legal proceedings, Abyssinian has maintained that the pastoral search process was guided by our core values—faith, fairness, integrity, and inclusivity. That process included a thorough and prayerful evaluation of more than 40 candidates from a wide range of backgrounds, with varying experiences, ages, genders, and identities.

Following the passing of our beloved pastor emeritus, Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III, the church initiated a comprehensive and transparent search for his successor. That journey culminated in the congregation’s vote in June 2024 to install our current Senior Pastor, Rev. Dr. Kevin R. Johnson, who began serving in July. Under his leadership, we are already witnessing renewed spiritual connection, growth in membership, and vibrant ministry engagement.

As we move forward, we remain anchored in our calling to be a beacon of faith, justice, and service in Harlem and beyond. We are proud of the enduring legacy of Abyssinian and are committed to continuing that legacy with clarity of purpose and unity of spirit.

We thank you for your patience, your prayers, and your unwavering support during this season. Let us continue to walk forward together—rooted in faith, grounded in justice, and inspired by the call to love and serve one another. May we continue to be reminded of the call in Romans 15:5-6 (NIV) “May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Keep the Faith,

Pulpit Search Committee
The Abyssinian Baptist Church