It’s about Christian values
Your recent article (Nov 1) could be more accurately headlined, “Principals support right to fire teachers who undermine school ethos”.
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It wouldn’t have generated much interest, but it accurately represents the position reported so fairly by your journalist.
Both principals and the letter they signed indicated no interest in or track record of firing teachers because of their sexuality.
However they wished to employ teachers who really support the Christian values and mission of the school.
It is undermining that ethos which might threaten employment prospects.
This is no different from the Labor Party refusing to employ someone who believes in the abolition of unions, or for a no-pokies lobby group to terminate the employment of its spokesperson if discovered investing in gambling companies.
It’s an integrity failure for the organisation.
A reasonable freedom to employ according to the values of an organisation is essential to maintaining freedom of association and, in this case, freedom of religion.
Rev Sandy Grant, St Michael’s Cathedral
TIGS not all sweetness
As the parent of a gay former student of TIGS I write in support of Henry Hulme's correspondence (2/11/2018) and his comments pertaining to gay students at TIGS. Further, I am concerned to balance the vitriolic social media comments which have been quick to appear.
During my daughter's time at TIGS she experienced direct discrimination and threats.
The threat to 'tell your parents' by staff magnified in her mind to a level that impeded her relationship with us when she did eventually 'come out'.
No Ms Nealy, things at TIGS are not all 'sweetness and light' as attested in yesterdays correspondence to parents.
My daughter is now a married (female partner) NSW police officer, serving the community.
Many of the positive values she exhibits were honed through TIGS, be they Christian or simply an appreciation of what is the 'right thing'. TIGS does reflect the spirit of positive community service and participation.
There is no doubting TIGS Anglican roots, however, we live in a time where the interpretation of Christian beliefs needs to be in harmony with community norms.
In this regard, adhering TIGS support for the open letter may not have been the 'right thing'.
Time will tell if the promise to Henry will be kept.
I would prefer if, as Headmistress, future correspondence could articulate what is being done to balance the needs of gay students rather than a simplistic glorification of normality.
Dr Ian Fargher, Nth Wollongong
State Rail Service
My wife and I travelled to Circular Quay from Oak Flats, my wife in her wheelchair.
The assistance we received throughout the journey was first class.
The staff were excellent with their knowledge and at all times courteous with a smile.
Thank you to all the staff who helped us yesterday 6th November. We had a great day. Thanks to you guys!!
John Keeling, Barrack Heights