Nicholas Sparks Accused of Homophobia And Racism

Nicholas Sparks, best-selling author of books like "The Notebook," is facing accusations of homophobia and racism from a former headmaster of his school. Saul Hillel Benjamin, former headmaster of the Epiphany School of Global Studies, is seeking punitive damages against the author as well as the other members of the school board.

image courtesy of sheknows.com

Racism
Benjamin claims that Sparks and co were "hostile towards non-white and non-Christian students and faculty." Sparks was allegedly dismissive towards complaints of unlawful employment practices, which included the failure to hire and recruit African-American staff. Sparks also allegedly said: "Black students are too poor and can't do the academic work."

Anti-Semitism

The complaint also mentions that Sparks and and the other defendants "displayed contempt for Mr. Benjamin's Jewish heritage and Quaker faith." Sparks even told Benjamin that parents at the school will not trust him because of who he is.

Homophobia
The complaint also mentioned that Sparks "supported those who bullied gay students." The lawsuit says in part: "...Defendant Sparks endorsed and lent support to a group of students --which included the children of key Epiphany administrators and other influential parents-- who viciously bullied and sought to enact a "Homo-caust" against a group of gay students. Defendant Sparks derisively referred to the bullied students as the 'Gay Club.'" Sparks also allegedly told Benjamin not to include homosexuality or sexual identity during school general diversity discussions.

Termination
Benjamin was terminated from his position on November 21, 2013. He was allegedly threatened and intimidated while "trapped in a room for hours." He was denied the request to consult a lawyer, and was reportedly fired without cause and in violation of his employment contract. Sparks even defamed Benjamin by telling people that he (Benjamin) had Alzheimer's.



The complaint says in part: "When Mr. Benjamin arrived and attempted to bring real diversity and inclusiveness to Epiphany, defendant Sparks and the members of the school's Board of Trustees were enraged and threatened by his efforts. What is more, defendant Sparks and members of the board unapologetically marginalized, bullied and harassed members of the school community, including Mr. Benjamin, whose religious views and/or identities did not conform to their religiously driven, bigoted preconceptions."

Reaction From Spark's Camp
Rick Pinto, Spark's layer, had this to say about the whole fiasco:  "We knew of the allegations and  strongly disagree with them... we will defend the lawsuit."  "They're fortunate to have someone like Mr. Sparks who would start a school like that, and as far as the allegations, let's just wait until the facts come out."


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