Gay school worker cites prejudice

[kweerwolf]

When a high school student was questioned for refusing to say the Pledge of Allegiance because he didn't believe gays had equal rights, Syosset High School psychologist Linda Fazio ran interference with the principal.

"I said, 'You have it all wrong. He's not trying to be a wise guy. He's trying to peacefully demonstrate his rights,'" she recalled, about the incident four years ago. "When I told him I didn't say the pledge, he went ballistic.

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Fazio, 55, who is openly lesbian and advises the Gay-Straight Alliance at the school, has filed a notice of claim against district officials, alleging discrimination. She alleges retaliation for her involvement with the alliance and says this is a "pattern ... toward minorities, in particular, gay students, teachers and those who support them."

Fazio is asking for $20 million in damages, according to court documents. The legal action was taken after she was told that after 19 years of working in the high school, she was being transferred to the elementary school next month.

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