A Russellville High School biology teacher has filed a lawsuit against the Russellville School District, alleging the district violated his First Amendment rights after he was fired over a social media post. The lawsuit was filed by Joshua Chance Duncan against the Russellville School District.

Background of the Case

According to Duncan’s attorney, Shelby Shroff, the case stems from a social media post Duncan made about the death of Charlie Kirk in September. The post included a quote from famed defense attorney Clarence Darrow that read, “I’ve never wished a man dead, but I have read some obituaries with great pleasure.” Shroff said Duncan removed the post before returning to school the following day and before the district became aware of it.

The district later learned about the post, placed Duncan on paid administrative leave while it investigated, and Superintendent Luke Lovins ultimately recommended Duncan’s termination to the school board. Duncan had worked for the district for 10 years, according to his attorney.

“The First Amendment protects the right to speak without government retaliating, and that includes government employees when they speak in their personal capacity,” Shroff said. Shroff said Duncan is not seeking monetary damages through the lawsuit. “We are not seeking damages. The ultimate goal of this lawsuit is for Mr. Duncan to be reinstated at Russellville High School,” Shroff said.

Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.