It's a sad fact that LGBTQ+ people routinely experience harassment, prejudice and abuse in the world of work. Indeed, this is doubly true for queer people who choose to work in the education sector. Gay teachers are often accused by bigoted parents of all manner of conspiracies against heteronormative society: apparently being guilty of corrupting the youth of today, eroding the sanctity of marriage, and everything else in between. However, that doesn't mean that gay people are going to take this homophobia lying down, as this story rightly proves.
Meet Michael Neri. Michael is a drama teacher who hails from the town of Kidderminster, in Worcestershire, England. Michael runs Talking Props Theatre School, which a performing arts school for children aged eight to 13, and is very popular among his students. However, he recently received a text from a homophobic parent who decided to take their kids out of his classes after learning that he was gay.
The disgruntled parent (whose name has not been made public) texted Michael, saying: "Hi Michael. Following our chat this week I have decided that -- and -- will not be attending class on Monday. You have a strong reputation for performing arts which encouraged me to sign my children up for classes. I have recently learned of your lifestyle and as a Christian I cannot allow my children to be influenced by unconventional ideas. It is our belief that a man should marry a woman. I look forward to receiving my deposit which you may post to me via cheque."
Michael clapped back in the best possible way, and replied: "I would be lying if I said I was disappointed to hear this. I pride my students on the respect and love they have for others and their passion for equality. You would only be infringing on our family. As far as I'm aware, my sexuality doesn't effect my ability to teach, just like it wouldn't effect a doctor's ability to treat one of your children should they become unwell. I'm sure that your children's health would come first should they need emergency treatment, or would you need to check their doctor's lifestyle prior to their life-saving operation?"
He added: "I wish you luck in finding an appropriate stage school that meets your needs, however from experience I find that theatre without gays is like cooking without spices. I hear StageCoach are enrolling but their teachers have been known to wear mixed fabrics which I'm sure you are aware is forbidden in the bible 9Leviticus 19:19). Please feel free to come see our musical 'Happy Days', confetti will be used in the finale but please rest assured that this is not an attempt to corrupt your Christian lifestyle. We just love glitter. Unfortunately deposits are non refundable but don't worry, your deposit has been donated to StoneWall, and LGBT charity."
What an absolutely brilliant response. With that kind of attitude, I have a good feeling that Michael's students will learn a lot of valuable life lessons from him; not just theatre and dance.
