Gay Teacher Has The Perfect Response To Mom Who Removed Her Kids From His Class

In the modern world, generally speaking, people are free to be their authentic selves. While discrimination certainly still exists, LGBTQ+ representation in the law is slowly but surely increasing (even if there is a long way to go). So, when one parent took umbrage to the fact that her child was being taught by a gay man, he responded in the best way possible.

The incident took place in England at the school of Michael Neri, a drama teacher for children aged eight to 13.

Credit: Michael Neri

Like many teachers, Michael gives up a significant amount of his free time on top of his assigned hours in class to ensure that his students grow into happy, confident individuals.

However, one parent completely overlooked his professional credentials and slammed the drama teacher for something outwith his control: his sexuality.

This mother obtained her homophobic view from religion, and, as a Christian, she said she didn't want her kids to be exposed to homosexuality.

Credit: Michael Neri

Instead of keeping her views to herself, she decided to shame the teacher for being open about his sexuality - an act which, in reality, could help many of his pupils who may find themselves questioning their sexual orientation.

So, after discovering that Michael was a gay man, she sent him the following text:

Credit: Michael Neri

"Hi Michael. Following our chat this week I have decided that [child's name] and [child's name] 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. Regards [mother's name]"

Credit: Michael Neri

In an interview with the Metro, Michael opened up about his initial reaction to the message:

"When I first saw the message I had to read it through twice. I believe that everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but it was still a hurtful thing to receive."

However, instead of meeting this woman's hate with hate, Michael decided to give her a response which would, hopefully, inspire her to rethink her homophobic views.

Credit: Michael Neri

"Hi [mother's name]. 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 affect my ability to teach, just like it wouldn't affect a doctor’s ability to treat one of your children should they become unwell. I'm sure 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?"

Credit: Michael Neri

"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 (just my opinion)."

Micheal then went as far as to quote the Bible, which, for many religious people, was intended to act as a guide and not be taken literally. I mean, let's face it, who honestly wears seamless garments these days?!

But perhaps the greatest action Micheal took was what he did with the woman's deposit. Instead of keeping it for himself, he selflessly gave it to the LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall - no doubt to this mom's horror.

"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 (Leviticus 19:19). Please feel free to come see our musical 'Happy Days', confetti will be used in the finale but please rest assured 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, an LGBT charity. Regards Michael."

Credit: Michael Neri

Micheal subsequently posted the shocking exchange on social media where it quickly went viral.

He told the Metro:

"It's been quite overwhelming how much it all escalated. I didn't want to upset anyone, but I needed to protect myself and my organization, so I thought I would reply in a polite manner."

Credit: Michael Neri

And that, my friends, is how you slay the haters in the classiest way possible.

Oh, and if Micheal's response did prompt the mom to change her views, he said her kids are welcome to rejoin the class at any time.