Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A Christian who was demoted in his job for posting his opposition to gay marriage on Facebook has taken his employer to court – and has found an unlikely ally in the gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell.
Adrian Smith lost his managerial position and had his salary cut by 40 per cent by Trafford Housing Trust after posting that gay weddings in church were "an equality too far".
The trust's action was swiftly criticised by many, including Mr Tatchell, who has previously said: "I am backing his bid for reinstatement and I'm prepared to testify in his defence. Strange but true." He added that if a gay employee had been treated this way "there would quite rightly be an outcry and accusations of homophobia. Why, then, are some lesbian and gay people supporting such a harsh penalty for Adrian Smith?"
Mr Smith gave evidence yesterday at Manchester County Court at the start of a two-day trial, where he is claiming his employer acted unlawfully in demoting him. The trust argues that he broke its code of conduct.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments