Students and alumni stand with pregnant fired teacher

.Alumnae photo from the I Stand With Barb web page

 For several Sundays in a row now, students, alumnae and community members have joined Barb Webb and her wife for a peaceful gathering at Marian HS.  Those who couldn't make it in person participated online, sharing photos with the hashtag #IStandWithBarb. The outpouring of support is a testament to the values these women gained from their education at the Catholic school outside of Detroit.

Barb was fired earlier this month when she asked for leave from her position as a chemistry teacher because she is pregnant. Being fired for a pregnancy is illegal in most jobs but the school determined that Barb's pregnancy was a violation of her contract because she is married to a woman.

The community's response has been swift and vocal. An open letter to the school's board says "We value our Marian experience, whatever that may have looked like for each of us as individuals, and we want to continue to be proud alumnae."Now they are asking all of their supporters to write to the board in time for the upcoming board meeting.  They are worried for the message this sends to young LGBTQ students and ask that the board approve a club which would be a safe space for those students. You can join their effort by writing a letter, signing a petition or attending a rally.