Kristie Higgs was sacked for gross misconduct by Farmor’s School in Fairford, Gloucestershire, in 2019. She had expressed concerns on social media about relationship education at her son’s Church of England primary school, saying that they were “brainwashing our children.” In October 2018, she shared two posts on Facebook under her maiden name. An anonymous complainant reported her to the school. As a result, Mrs Higgs was suspended and, after a disciplinary hearing, dismissed.

Mrs Higgs, with the support of Christian Legal Centre, appealed the decision. She took the school to an employment tribunal, arguing she had been unlawfully discriminated against because of her Christian beliefs. The school denied this and said they had sacked Mrs Higgs because of the language she used. In 2020, the tribunal determined that the dismissal had been lawful. Mrs Higgs could not accept this and re-appealed against the ruling. 

Just before the hearing this Wednesday, she stated, “I am thankful to God for sustaining me. I am not the only one being treated this way. Many of the others here to support me today have faced similar consequences. This is not just about me. It cannot be right that so many Christians are losing their jobs or facing discipline for sharing biblical truth and our Christian beliefs.”

Christians in London have rallied to support Mrs Higgs and the right to freedom of speech. A huge crowd gathered outside the Royal Courts of Justice ahead of the hearing.

Lord Justice Underhill, Lord Justice Bean and Lady Justice Falk are expected to close the case on Thursday. 

Source: https://premierchristian.news/