New Jersey teacher accused of anti-gay Facebook comments

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A teacher in New Jersey, US, has been criticised for allegedly saying homosexuality is “perverted” and “breeds like cancer” on her Facebook page.

Viki Knox, who works in Union High School in the Union Township school district, reportedly advises a student prayer group.

According to the Star-Ledger, she is said to have to have called homosexuality “a perverted spirit that has existed from the beginning of creation” and a “sin” that “breeds like cancer”.

Attorney John Paragano saw the posts before they were removed and alerted the school district.

Union chief school administrator Patrick Martin told Associated Press yesterday that an investigation is underway and the incident is being treated seriously.

New Jersey gay rights group Garden State Equality has called for her to be sacked.

Edward Barocas, legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union in New Jersey, said in a statement: “Although we do not agree with the sentiments expressed on Ms. Knox’s personal Facebook page, her beliefs and comments are protected by the First Amendment.”

But he added: “Because her postings raised questions about her conduct within school, the school district can and should investigate whether she is performing her job in accordance with school policies and the state’s Law Against Discrimination.”

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