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Virginia real estate agent is facing professional ethics charges and potential license revocation after sharing his biblical views on marriage and sexuality on social media. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has scheduled a December 4 hearing to determine whether Wilson Fauber's comments violated its rules against hate speech.
Fauber, an ordained minister and veteran realtor, posted scripture on Facebook in 2015 explaining the biblical definition of marriage as between one man and one woman. He did so before the US Supreme Court redefined marriage and before NAR amended its ethics code to prohibit harassment or discriminatory language based on various characteristics, including sexual orientation.
Fauber's comments were not challenged until he announced his candidacy for Staunton City Council last year, when an opposition group criticized him for his Christian beliefs. An ethics complaint was filed with the NAR after Fauber reaffirmed his commitment to scripture in a subsequent interview.
The Founding Freedoms Law Center (FFLC) is representing Fauber and argues that his statements do not constitute hate speech. The organization claims that the NAR's rules are being used to silence individuals with disfavored viewpoints, citing Orwellian tactics to suppress free speech and religion.
Fauber faces potential monetary penalties or loss of membership in the NAR, which would bar him from accessing the multiple listing service (MLS) essential for his real estate business. The FFLC is concerned that this action sets a disturbing precedent for the suppression of personal faith and freedom of expression.
Victoria Cobb, president of the Family Foundation of Virginia, notes that the NAR's decision to pursue ethics charges against Fauber raises concerns about the erosion of free speech in America. Michael Sylvester, FFLC litigation counsel, warns that if Fauber is dismissed, it would signal a new low for society and undermine the values of professionals who are expected to leave their personal beliefs at the door.
