A New Zealand Christian high school teacher’s employment has been recently terminated due to the misuse of pronouns when referring to a transgender student. This event emphasises the importance of respecting individuals’ gender identities and using appropriate pronouns to foster an inclusive educational environment.
The incident occurred at an undisclosed educational institution, where a teacher consistently failed to use the preferred pronouns of a 14-year-old transgender student. Instead, the teacher repeatedly used pronouns that did not align with the student’s gender identity. The student suggested a compromise, where the teacher could use their preferred name, but continue to use she/her pronouns, instead of their preferred he/him pronouns. The teacher refused, instead using words which suggested he did not want the student to “go down a path of sin”. This disregard for the student’s pronoun preferences caused distress and discomfort, negatively impacting their educational experience and overall well-being.
In response to the situation, the educational institution took prompt action. The administration initiated an investigation to address the matter appropriately. They ensured that the student received necessary support and counselling to help mitigate the emotional impact resulting from the misgendering.
Following a thorough investigation, the educational institution determined that the teacher’s actions violated policies related to inclusivity and respect for gender diversity. As a consequence, the teacher’s employment was terminated.
The teacher faced a disciplinary hearing, where he fiercely denied misconduct, stating the practice of using the student’s preferred pronouns went against his “core Christian beliefs”. The teacher cited Bible passages, referencing topics as far reaching as abortion and homosexuality in his defence. The tribunal had “no hesitation” in declaring the teacher acted with misconduct, despite noting they were “not moving to punish” the teacher for his response as “he is entitled to his views and religious beliefs”. The tribunal found the teacher’s submissions contained “unrealistic hysteria”.
The Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand stated “All teachers are legally bound and regularly recommit to comply with the code which sets out the commitments to the teaching profession, learners, families and whānau (the extended family group) and society. In essence it describes how a teacher must behave. When the code is broken, it can result in disciplinary action being taken.”