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South African church fires gay music teacher
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Music teacher sues South African church for discrimination
"The church admitted that [Strydom's] homosexuality had influenced their decision"
A music teacher is suing a Dutch reformed Church in South Africa after they abruptly terminated his contract after learning of his homosexuality.
Johan Strydom has issued a damages claim worth 205,000 South African Rand (£13,880) against the Reformed Church Moreletapark for loss of income, the impairment of his dignity and discrimination.
The church’s dismissal came following an anonymous phone call divulging information concerning Strydom’s sexual orientation. As a response the church requested Strydom attend meetings to discuss the issue, which he refused to do, prompting the premature termination of his contract.
Strydom, who was a music lecturer at the church's Arts Academy before it closed down, claimed to have developed depression as a direct result of being fired and cited his illness as the main reason for the lawsuit and his subsequent split from his long-term partner.
As yet the church have denied responsibility, but according to Qweerty.com have admitted that Johan's Strydom's homosexuality influenced their decision.
The case continues.
