In a controversial decision, a state Catholic school in Canada has reportedly expelled a student named Josh Alexander for upholding his biblical beliefs on sexuality. The incident occurred in February 2023, sparking widespread outrage and debate across the country.

Josh Alexander,  a junior student at St. Joseph’s Catholic High School in Renfrew, Ontario, was suspended after a statement he made about a teacher during a discussion on gender. In a statement made by Josh, he said; “It was about male students using female washrooms, gender dysphoria, and male breastfeeding. Everyone was sharing their opinions on it, any student who wanted to was participating, including the teacher,” Alexander said.

“I said there were only two genders, and you were born either a male or a female, and that got me into trouble. And then I said that gender doesn’t trump biology,” he narrated.

The school’s administration allegedly took issue with Alexander’s stance, which they deemed to be discriminatory and intolerant. According to a report by The Toronto Sun, on commencement of the second semester, Josh resumed back to school where he was met by the vice principal, arrested by the police, and charged for trespassing.

Reports had it that Josh was informed by the school principal that he could only return to school if he agreed not to call any transgender student by their “dead name” and also to exempt himself from two classes which happened to be attended by two transgender students who criticized Josh’s belief.

Josh’s Attorney on the case had written to the school principal, Derek Lennox, explaining that coaxing a 16-year-old into uttering gender statements against his religious belief and segregating him was discrimination.

In response, the school released a statement defending its decision and insisting that it had a duty to uphold the values of inclusivity and acceptance for all students. The statement also highlighted the school’s commitment to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all students, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. In Lennox’s words, he said;  “his presence in the school or classroom would be detrimental to the physical or mental well-being of the pupils.”

The situation quickly escalated, with many supporters of Alexander and his family accusing the school of violating his religious freedom and free speech rights. Protests erupted outside the school, and social media was flooded with messages of support for the expelled student.

I have just been arrested and charged at my Catholic highschool for attending class after being excluded for indicating my intent to adhere to my religious beliefs. pic.twitter.com/vTkaSoTnFp

— Josh Alexander (@officialJosh_A) February 6, 2023

The incident has sparked a heated debate across Canada, with many weighing in on the issue of religious freedom versus discrimination. 

Some have criticized the school for failing to respect Alexander’s beliefs and for not allowing him to express them freely. Others, however, have defended the school’s actions, arguing that religious beliefs should not be used to justify discrimination against marginalized groups.

The situation is ongoing, and it remains to be seen what the ultimate outcome will be. 

Josh Alexander is a hero.
I'm grateful for men who defend the honor of women worldwide. Our ancestors fought for safety & opportunity for females, so we wouldn't need to. The leftist agenda minimizes & devalues the impact of women.#IStandWithJKRowling#IStandWithJoshAlexander pic.twitter.com/JIsCzBSyrP

— Free the World 🇺🇲🌏🦅 (@PatriotVerity) February 21, 2023