Teacher Fired for Opposition to Planned Parenthood, Says Pro-Life Group
A teacher in Oregon was fired over openly opposing the construction of a Planned Parenthood facility, alleges a California-based pro-life legal organization.
The Life Legal Defense Foundation of Napa has stated that Bill Diss was wrongfully fired from his teaching position by Portland Public Schools on Monday.
Rebekah Millard, staff counsel with the Foundation, told The Christian Post about how her organization became involved in the matter.
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"Mr. Diss requested our assistance several months ago. He was fired Monday, Dec. 16, following a vote by the Portland Public Schools Board; however, he had been on paid leave since March," said Millard.
"We are currently in discussions with Mr. Diss and are considering legal options, but cannot discuss what those may be at this point."
According to the foundation's website, Diss was a critic of Planned Parenthood's construction of a new facility in downtown Portland. His efforts were done outside of the classroom.
Diss was further compelled to be in attendance at a Planned Parenthood-affiliated group's program held at his school, which went contrary to his religious convictions.
By March he was put on administrative leave by school officials and at a board meeting on Monday evening had his employment with Portland Public Schools terminated.
Christine Miles, spokeswoman for Portland Public Schools, told CP that the termination of Diss had nothing to do with his views on abortion.
"Mr. Diss has said his termination was based on his religious beliefs and his right to free speech. That is not the case," said Miles.
"The school district takes discipline of all employees seriously. Mr. Diss's conduct and performance led to his removal from the classroom and termination."
Miles also told CP that since this was "a personnel matter," she was not legally permitted to "discuss this matter in detail."
Dana Cody, president and executive director of the Life Legal Defense Foundation, also told CP that she could not comment further on "the future," but said her organization "will do whatever we can to assist Mr. Diss."
