Pastor Fired for Pronoun Dispute at Library

A pastor in Louisiana has claimed he was dismissed from his job at the East Baton Rouge Parish Library after refusing to use a colleague’s preferred pronouns. Rev. Luke Ash stated he was let go during a discussion on July 7, after working there for less than six months. He also serves as the lead pastor at Stephendale Baptist Church in Baton Rouge.

In a conversation with a coworker, Ash said he had referred to a person being trained without using their chosen pronouns. “The coworker corrected me and said that the person liked to be called ‘he,’ and I refused to use those preferred pronouns,” he shared during an interview with Tony Perkins on “The Washington Watch.” The following day, he was informed by his supervisor about the dismissal.

Ash mentioned he was presented with the option to use what he referred to as a “false biological pronoun,” which he declined. He expressed his commitment to honesty based on his religious beliefs, stating, “I’m not going to lie.” He was aware that his actions conflicted with the library’s conduct rules, but felt he needed to stand by his beliefs.

He articulated, “When beliefs contradict each other, you have to choose.” Ash emphasized that he couldn’t compromise his honesty due to his faith.

Reactions and Next Steps

Logan Wolf, a member of the Fairness Board, suggested that respecting people’s preferences is a matter of basic decency, accusing Ash of fabricating grievances. Meanwhile, Ash has stated that he is weighing his options regarding the situation.

Despite attempts, no comment was received from officials at the East Baton Rouge Parish Library before publication.