Gay Teacher Anthony Nicodemo Speaks Out After Doxxing by Libs of TikTok

Anthony Nicodemo, a respected high school social studies teacher and basketball coach, found himself at the center of a national controversy in October 2025 after he was doxxed by prominent conservative influencers for displaying an anti-fascist poster in his classroom. The incident, which began when his classroom video was reposted by Corey DeAngelis and Chaya Raichik, who operates the Libs of TikTok account, has reignited urgent discussions about the safety and visibility of LGBTQ+ educators in America’s schools .

The controversy began when Nicodemo posted a video online showing himself hanging a sign in his classroom that read, “fascists fear teachers.” In the video, Nicodemo explained the historical context, citing examples from the 20th century in which authoritarian regimes targeted educators as a means of suppressing dissent and independent thought. “Throughout history, the first group of people that fascists have attacked are educators,” Nicodemo said, referencing regimes led by Stalin, Hitler, and Mussolini .

The video was quickly shared by Corey DeAngelis and Chaya Raichik (Libs of TikTok) to their large social media followings. DeAngelis not only reposted the video but also shared links to Nicodemo’s social media accounts, the school website, and contact details for his principal and superintendent. Raichik’s account encouraged followers to contact the school and leave comments on Nicodemo’s online profiles .

What followed was an intense campaign of harassment. Nicodemo’s social media accounts were flooded with abusive messages, including slurs and accusations such as “evil,” “creep,” and “pedo groomer.” The volume and vitriol forced Nicodemo to make his accounts private for the first time in over a decade of being publicly out as an educator .

Despite the onslaught, Nicodemo has remained resolute. In statements to LGBTQ Nation and The Advocate, he expressed concern not just for himself, but for all LGBTQ+ educators and community members who may not have the supportive environment that he does. “I can take the hits, I’m okay,” he said. “But I’m saddened, and I’m fearful for my people in our community who can’t, who don’t have the support of an administration or don’t have the ability to handle these kinds of attacks... Which is what these people ultimately want. They want us to be quiet, and they want to make us disappear” .

Nicodemo’s refusal to back down is rooted in his long-standing commitment to visibility and inclusion. Having come out publicly in 2013, he has continued to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights both within and beyond the classroom, including as a contributor to Outsports. He has stated that his classroom poster is not a political statement, but a reflection of historical reality and a commitment to fostering critical thinking among students .

The doxxing of Nicodemo is part of a broader pattern of harassment targeting LGBTQ+ teachers and those who promote inclusive education. Right-wing social media accounts have increasingly mobilized their followers to pressure school administrators, flood communication channels, and intimidate teachers who discuss topics related to identity, diversity, and justice .

Advocates warn that such campaigns have a chilling effect: some educators may choose to avoid discussing LGBTQ+ issues or supporting LGBTQ+ students out of fear for their safety or job security. This, in turn, can contribute to a hostile or isolating environment for LGBTQ+ youth, who already face disproportionate rates of bullying and mental health challenges .

However, Nicodemo’s case also highlights the importance of administrative support and community solidarity. He has credited his school’s administration for standing with him and reaffirming the institution’s commitment to inclusion. Not all teachers are so fortunate, and many advocates are calling for stronger policies and protections for LGBTQ+ educators at the state and federal levels .

For many in the LGBTQ+ community, Nicodemo’s response is both inspiring and emblematic of the resilience required to confront coordinated harassment. Visibility remains a powerful tool in challenging stigma and promoting acceptance, even in the face of backlash. As Nicodemo stated, “People who are dabbling in the LGBTQ+ community when it’s convenient for them financially, then coming out against LGBTQ educators… It drives me up the wall a little bit. These people need to be held accountable for this” .

His experience underscores the importance of authentic advocacy and the necessity of holding influential figures accountable for the harm caused by their platforms and followers. The ongoing support for Nicodemo from students, colleagues, and national organizations is a testament to the enduring value of inclusive education and the courage of those who refuse to be silenced .

The doxxing of Anthony Nicodemo is a stark reminder of the real risks faced by LGBTQ+ educators in the current climate. Yet, his determination to continue teaching and advocating for his students and community demonstrates the power of resilience in the face of adversity. As debates about inclusive education intensify nationwide, the need for robust protections and affirming environments for LGBTQ+ teachers and students remains urgent.