W
ilson Fauber, a former Staunton City Council candidate and 44-year realtor, has been accused of violating National Association of Realtors ethics for comments deemed "hate speech." However, Fauber claims his posts were simply scripture interpretations shared on social media as part of his work as a pastor. The NAR cited a single post from February 2015, labeling him a "hater."
Fauber received an email notification from the NAR, stating he was under investigation for his February 13th posts. He sought representation from the Founding Freedoms Law Center and litigation counsel Michael Sylvester took on the case.
Sylvester argued that Fauber's speech was protected by the First Amendment and did not constitute hate speech or harassment against a protected category. "He's a minister, he runs a nonprofit Christian ministry," Sylvester said. "It's normal for him to express his views on these topics on his personal social media page."
Fauber feels blindsided by the complaint, which he believes was targeted. He has never received a complaint in his 44-year career and is confident that his speech is protected. "This is the United States of America," Fauber said. "We need to stand boldly and speak out for our freedoms." He plans to appeal the ruling with his legal team.
Fauber's case highlights concerns about free speech and the limits of hate speech laws. As this story develops, WHSV will provide updates on-air and online.
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