Yeah, I think you should just call it a model or scientific theory (although both of these may be confusing terms for laymen) and not be too picky about people

Yeah, I think you should just call it a model or scientific theory (although both of these may be confusing terms for laymen) and not be too picky about people calling it "fact" (I think there is no point arguing with people you share beliefs with). We also often informally call gravity a "fact", although technically it's just a theory too.