#United States #Traverse City #St. Francis #Fred Szczepanski #LGBTQ Rights

Discrimination Case in Michigan: Fred Szczepanski's Fight for Justice

In a significant legal battle, Fred Szczepanski, a music director who dedicated over 35 years of service to the St. Francis of Assisi Church in Traverse City, Michigan, has initiated a lawsuit against the Catholic Archdiocese. This legal action follows his recent dismissal from the church just three months shy of his planned retirement, a decision he attributes to discrimination based on sexual orientation.

Szczepanski's plight began when news of his marriage to longtime partner, Bill Thompson, surfaced, leading to his unexpected termination. Both men have been open about their relationship for many years, yet an anonymous letter disclosing their marriage is what prompted the church to act. The couple tied the knot during the Covid-19 pandemic, choosing to prioritize their legal rights over a lavish celebration.

Represented by attorney Blake Ringsmuth of Ringsmuth Wuori PLLC, Szczepanski's lawsuit points to a violation of the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, which was amended in 2022 to protect the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. The lawsuit was filed in Grand Traverse County Circuit Court, with Szczepanski expressing his deep disappointment. "I see this as a national issue where the privacy and rights of gay men and women must be protected. I am heartbroken over what happened after my years of dedication to the church and its congregation," he remarked.

During his tenure, Szczepanski was responsible for various musical duties, particularly during Christmas and Easter celebrations; he held no educational or ministerial roles. According to his contract, he could only be dismissed for just cause, a condition he firmly believes was not met.

The environment surrounding his dismissal has proven tumultuous. Many members of the church, including the choir, have expressed their discontent, leading to significant disruptions, including the resignation of the 35-40 member choir. Parishioners are showing their support for Szczepanski by picketing, reflecting their grief and solidarity with a beloved figure whose contributions to the church have been widely recognized.

Szczepanski's attorney has condemned the church's hypocritical treatment, citing inconsistencies in how other employees have been handled in similar circumstances, where violations of church doctrines were overlooked. He underscored that many individuals employed by the church have faced far more serious allegations without facing the same repercussions.

As this case develops, it has already sparked conversation regarding LGBTQ+ rights within religious institutions and the broader context of discrimination across the United States. Szczepanski's situation raises questions about the balance between religious beliefs and civil rights, particularly regarding the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals in traditional institutions.

With his future uncertain, Szczepanski aims not only to seek reparation for his termination but to highlight the need for ongoing advocacy. The outcome of this lawsuit could have implications that reach far beyond just one individual, touching on the rights of many within the LGBTQ+ community who continue to face discrimination. As he prepares for the legal confrontation, Szczepanski remains steadfast in his belief that love and acceptance should be core tenets of any faith community.

The church has yet to publicly comment on the lawsuit. However, as the case unfolds, it stands as a poignant reminder of the struggles many face in the realm of equality and acceptance, particularly within conservative religious institutions.

For those interested in supporting or following this case, further updates are expected as it progresses through the court system, nurturing hope amidst a challenging landscape for LGBTQ+ individuals in the realm of faith and community.