Teacher Fired Over School Pronoun Policy Can Sue in State Court

A Virginia public school teacher who said he was illegally fired for refusing to use a student’s chosen pronouns can pursue his free speech claims in state court after the Fourth Circuit said Friday the suit does not require resolution of a federal question.

Peter Vlaming said it was against his religious beliefs to use a student’s chosen male pronouns. Vlaming used the student’s name with female pronouns, including when referring to the student during class activities.

The West Point School Board and school officials told Vlaming his refusal to use the student’s chosen pronouns potentially violated federal civil rights ...