A Beverly Hills teacher claims she was fired for posting anti-Trump comments on social media, expressing outrage over the behaviour of pro-Trump students on campus, Independent reported. Joanie Garratt, who had spent nearly 30 years teaching at Beverly Hills High School and returned as a long-term substitute for AP US History, alleges her dismissal was politically motivated and an attack on free speech.
“I am ashamed to be an American,” Garratt had written in one of her Facebook posts, alongside criticism of a pro-Trump rally held at the school after the 2020 election. She accused students of harassing non-MAGA peers and targeting a classroom where the Black Student Union was meeting, claiming racial slurs were used and that some students were left in tears. In the same post, she placed blame on “His Majesty, King Trump,” referring to the then-president’s influence on student conduct.
On November 13, days after the rally and subsequent backlash, Garratt said she received a call from a district administrator informing her of her termination, without further explanation. According to Garratt’s attorney, her comments were made on a private social media account, off school grounds, and are protected by the First Amendment and California labour laws.
Superintendent Michael Bregy denied any formal dismissal, stating Garratt had retired years ago and was serving as a substitute. “No action was taken to dismiss her or any other employee in the last month,” he said. He also reaffirmed the district’s commitment to ensuring respectful dialogue and a safe educational environment.
The rally in question saw dozens of pro-Trump students waving flags, shouting slogans, and reportedly intimidating classmates. Footage shared online shows a group of students stopping near the Black Student Union’s classroom, knocking on the door, and appearing to attempt entry. Some students and staff later alleged this was part of a broader pattern of harassment targeting minority groups.
The incident has sparked widespread debate over free speech, workplace protections, and the responsibilities of educators in politically charged times. Garratt maintains she never discussed the election in class but has faced an outpouring of support from colleagues and students alike.
“Teachers feel muzzled,” she said, describing a culture of fear among educators. “I wear this as a badge of honour.”
