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Gay teacher had a mic-drop reply after a mom pulled her kids out of his drama class because of his sexuality

The response won the hearts of many on social media.
PUBLISHED MAR 5, 2025
Drama teacher guiding and teaching students with script in hand. (Representative Cover Image Source: Pexels | cottonbro studio; (Inset) X | @michaelneri)
Drama teacher guiding and teaching students with script in hand. (Representative Cover Image Source: Pexels | cottonbro studio; (Inset) X | @michaelneri)

Being in an advanced and forward-thinking era, there should be no differentiation or bias based on gender, appearance or personal choices. An employee deserves their dues based on how well and skillfully they do their job and what they bring to the table. Unfortunately, a teacher named Michael Neri–who goes by @michaelneri on X–revealed that he was called out for his sexual preferences. Neri revealed that one of his students’ homophobic mom decided to discontinue sending her child to learn with him because he was gay. However, the teacher had a spot-on response.

Drama teacher enacting scene in front of students. (Representative Image Source: Pexels| Photo by fauxels)
Drama teacher enacting scene in front of students. (Representative Image Source: Pexels| Photo by fauxels)

The mom began the message by saying that her kids wouldn’t be attending his class henceforth. She then shared an explanation as to why she made the decision. “You have a strong reputation for performing arts, which encouraged me to sign my children up for classes. I have recently learned of your lifestyle and as a Christian, I cannot allow my children to be influenced by unconventional ideas,” she wrote. The mom further added, “It is our belief that a man should marry a woman. I look forward to receiving my deposit, which you may post to me via cheque.” Neri was subtle in his response to the parent but ensured he gave a straightforward and factual message. 

Drama teacher focusing on duty during work. (Representative Image Source: Pexels| Photo by cottonbro studio)
Drama teacher focusing on duty during work. (Representative Image Source: Pexels| Photo by cottonbro studio)

Neri began by unusually mentioning that he wasn’t disappointed with the mom’s decision. He explained, “I pride my students on the respect and love they have for others and their passion for equality.” The teacher also noted that his “sexuality doesn’t affect my ability to teach just like it wouldn't affect a doctor's ability to treat one of your children should they become unwell.” “I'm sure your children's health would come first should they need emergency treatment or would you need to check their doctor's lifestyle prior to their life-saving operation?” he asked. The teacher had no bitterness to render and ever so professionally wished the mom the best in finding an appropriate school. He added, “In my experience, I find that theatre without gays is like cooking without spices.”

Teacher busy with student at school. (Representative Image Source: Pexels| Photo by RDNE Stock Project)
Teacher busy with student at school. (Representative Image Source: Pexels| Photo by RDNE Stock Project)

Neri ensured he covered each point the mom mentioned in her message and responded elegantly. “I hear StageCoach are enrolling, but their teachers have been known to wear mixed fabrics, which I'm sure you are aware is forbidden in the Bible (Leviticus 19:19),” he quoted. Neri invited the mom to the musical and said, “Confetti will be used in the finale, but please rest assured this is not an attempt to corrupt your Christian lifestyle. We just love glitter.” He concluded by informing her that she would not be getting her deposit back as it was non-refundable, but he had a perfect plan for that too. “Don't worry, your deposit has been donated to StoneWall, an LGBT charity," he remarked.



 



 

People commended Neri for his respectful yet factual message that delivered the truth. @gavlarkiz wrote, “Respect to you, dude! I really cannot believe these people still exist in the 21st century! Keep up the glitter and mixed fabrics.” @abisprout added, “You were a lot more polite than I would have been! Love it.” @Emiliafribergs remarked, “Best comeback of the 21st century."



 

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