ACLJ Files Answer in Defense of Parent Who Exposed Teacher’s Anti-Israel Statements

As we recently shared, the ACLJ is representing a courageous parent who is being sued simply for sharing a teacher’s social media post and expressing concern about the teacher’s hostile anti-Israel ideology. This case is an example of how parents are being retaliated against for their efforts to engage school leaders and express their opinions concerning, among other things, teacher conduct and the improper indoctrination of students.

Today, we are taking the next critical step in defending our client by filing our answer in court, responding to every allegation made against her. Our answer lays out a clear and direct response to the baseless claims made against our client. We assert not only that her statements were true and constitutionally protected but also that the lawsuit itself is an attempt to chill speech on matters of public concern – something the courts have consistently found to be impermissible.

The teacher’s post suggested that in defending itself against terrorism, Israel was committing a crime against humanity and against history by committing ethnic cleansing. The teacher also suggested that any Jew who was “antiracist” would join Palestinians to oppose any response by Israel following the October 7 attacks. As we detailed when we first took the case, our client did nothing more than share the teacher’s own post and express concern regarding the teacher’s post. Our client’s speech is protected opinion – speech that lies at the core of what the First Amendment protects. Her actions were motivated by a deep concern for her community and a desire to stand against anti-Israel rhetoric. Instead of addressing the underlying issue, the plaintiff chose to file a lawsuit.

In addition to our answer, we are actively preparing for the next phase of the case. We will continue to fight to protect our client, who has been dragged through burdensome litigation for doing exactly what the law allows – and, in fact, encourages – citizens to do: Engage school officials and speak out against injustice.

We will keep you updated every step of the way as this case progresses. In the meantime, we are grateful for your continued support as we defend this parent.

Stay tuned.