Oglethorpe County, Georgia, October 23, 2025
News Summary
Michelle Mickens, a Georgia teacher, has filed a federal lawsuit after being suspended indefinitely for her social media comments about political activist Charlie Kirk. Represented by the Southern Poverty Law Center and the Georgia Association of Educators, the lawsuit asserts that Mickens was exercising her First Amendment rights. The SPLC argues that Mickens is being unfairly targeted for expressing differing views on gun control and condemning political violence. The case raises important questions about educators’ rights to express personal opinions in their private lives.
Oglethorpe County, Georgia – A federal lawsuit has been filed on behalf of Michelle Mickens, a Georgia teacher, by the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) and the Georgia Association of Educators (GAE). Mickens was placed on indefinite suspension and urged to resign following her social media posts regarding the assassination of political activist Charlie Kirk. The lawsuit claims Mickens was exercising her First Amendment rights when she posted a quote from Kirk on her private Facebook account.
The lawsuit highlights Mickens’ criticism of Kirk’s opinions on gun control and her condemnation of political violence, emphasizing her hope for a safer world. Michael Tafelski, interim deputy legal director for SPLC, stated that the case addresses ideological control over public education. Mickens’ comments were made on her personal Facebook account and did not mention her employer, school, or students, which puts into question the justification for her suspension.
The SPLC argues that Mickens is being targeted for her personal views that differ from those in power, despite not violating any policies or harming students. Additionally, the lawsuit contends that another teacher was hired to take over Mickens’ class during her suspension, indicating a disregard for the teacher’s status within the school system, even though her termination was unofficial.
Oglethorpe County School System Superintendent Beverley Levine acknowledged the lawsuit but claimed that the facts stated in it were inaccurate or incomplete, highlighting a potential conflict between Mickens’ representation of the events and the school administration’s stance. The SPLC and GAE are seeking not only the restoration of Mickens’ job but also protection of educators’ rights against censorship and intimidation in their professional environment.
Throughout her 24 years of teaching, Mickens has become known for her commitment to education, previously being named a finalist for the Georgia Teacher of the Year in 2022. Her social media posts sparked discussions where her friends disagreed with her views on Kirk. A classmate allegedly took a screenshot of Mickens’ post and shared it, leading to complaints being filed with school administrators about her comments.
Initially, Mickens was informed of the complaint without being told she was in trouble; however, she later learned that her posts had been circulated online. Following threats of termination if she did not resign, Mickens sought legal counsel before responding to the school district’s requests. She claims that other teachers have not faced repercussions for similar pro-Kirk sentiments expressed publicly, raising concerns about fairness and consistency in the enforcement of policies within the school system.
In support of Mickens, an online petition opposing her termination has gathered more than 1,100 signatures, demonstrating community backing for her stance. The SPLC seeks compensatory damages, lost wages, attorney fees, and the removal of any policy violation references from Mickens’ record to rectify what they perceive as an infringement on her rights as an educator.
Background on Charlie Kirk
Charlie Kirk is a political activist known for his outspoken views on issues including gun control. His public statements have often sparked considerable debate, with advocates and critics alike voicing strong opinions in response to his rhetoric.
Implications for Educators
This case raises critical questions regarding the rights of educators to express personal opinions in their private lives, especially on social media, and whether school districts can enforce policies that may inhibit free speech.
Overview of Case Developments
- Lawsuit filed by SPLC and GAE on Mickens’ behalf
- Mickens suspended indefinitely for social media comments
- Claims violation of First Amendment rights
- Seeking job restoration and compensation
- Community petition gathers over 1,100 signatures
FAQ Section
What is the lawsuit about?
A federal lawsuit has been filed on behalf of Michelle Mickens, a Georgia teacher, by the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) and the Georgia Association of Educators (GAE). Mickens was placed on indefinite suspension and urged to resign following her social media posts regarding the assassination of political activist Charlie Kirk.
What were Mickens’ social media comments about?
Mickens criticized Kirk’s opinions on gun control and condemned political violence, emphasizing her hope for a safer world.
What are the demands of the lawsuit?
The SPLC and GAE are seeking Mickens’ job restoration and protection of educators’ rights against censorship and intimidation.
How long has Mickens been teaching?
Mickens has taught for 24 years and was a finalist for the Georgia Teacher of the Year in 2022.
What was the reaction to her social media posts?
An online petition opposing Mickens’ termination has gathered more than 1,100 signatures, indicating significant community support.
