Silenced for Speaking Up: A Teacher’s Fight for Justice!
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#Justice For Remi
Hi, I’m Remi, a dedicated educator in Portland, Oregon, and I’m asking for your support as I navigate a legal and professional battle following what I believe to be discrimination and retaliation by my employer.
I’ve spent my career working to create inclusive, supportive classrooms—advocating for students, families, and coworkers alike. I’ve also supported efforts to improve labor conditions at my school, including participating in union-related activities. I never expected that advocating for what’s right would put my own career at risk.
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What Happened
In early 2024, I raised concerns about workplace practices I believed were discriminatory, supported a parent’s formal complaint, and requested accommodations for my disabilities: PTSD and ADHD. I also shared that I’m a cult survivor—something that makes transparency and trust especially important for my well-being at work.
Despite the relatively simple nature of my accommodation requests, I believe they were delayed and denied without justification. Not long after raising concerns about my treatment, I was placed on paid suspension in December 2024.
Since then, I’ve been left in limbo, with no clarity about my future at the school—even as I repeatedly attempted to engage in dialogue and find a resolution.
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What I’ve Done to Seek Resolution
- I contacted the school board to express concerns and ask for an investigation. I was told they could not act until the personnel process was complete.
- I reached out to the supporting school district for help. I was told that their legal team advised against intervening.
- I contacted the Oregon Department of Education, which said it could not act until internal processes were resolved and suggested other agencies for support.
- I contested a pre-termination letter, pointing out what I believe to be factual inaccuracies, but received no reply until the school year ended.
- I notified the board of an upcoming gender-affirming surgery in February, yet heard nothing back—leaving me to worry about insurance coverage and job security during recovery.
- I declined a separation agreement in May 2025 because it asked me to waive my civil rights and right to pursue any legal claims.
- I was then terminated without notice in July 2025.
Why I’m Going Public
I’ve done everything I can to resolve this privately and professionally. But I believe that public accountability matters—especially in schools that serve our communities. Educators should not face retaliation for advocating for students, coworkers, or their own rights. I believe what’s happened to me reflects a larger problem in how complaints and accommodations are sometimes handled.
Fortunately, federal and state agencies have agreed to take up my complaint, so there is still hope.
What Your Support Will Help With
- Legal representation to pursue justice
- Medical expenses to ensure my care continues with the same providers.
What Lies Ahead
I’ve been studying hard to pass the Middle School Math Competency Exam and am hoping to transition into being a math teacher. I miss my students—their energy, humor, and creativity—and I’m determined to return to the profession I love.
How You Can Help
- Donate to support my legal, medical, and professional expenses
- Share this fundraiser with your networks
- Stay engaged in protecting workers’ rights in your own communities
Thank you for reading my story and for standing with me. Every donation, share, and act of support moves me closer to healing and justice.
With gratitude,
Remi
Organizer
Remi Haven
Organizer
Portland, OR