CLEVELAND — Cleveland’s fire chief, Anthony P. Luke, is under internal review following a social media post about the assassination of Charlie Kirk.
On Sept. 14, Luke reposted a cartoon video showing a machine gun on a pedestal before a group of kneeling elephants, with one saying, “Bring out the next sacrifice,” while a Charlie Kirk quote scrolled across the top, WOIO reported.
| HOT TOPIC: Firefighters face investigations over social posts about Charlie Kirk’s killing
The city released a statement to WOIO on Sept. 15:
“We are aware of the social media post made by the Fire Chief. The Mayor’s Office takes this matter seriously and is reviewing it. The views expressed in the post do not reflect the values of the City of Cleveland. We will provide an update as appropriate.”
Sarah Johnson, chief communications officer for the city of Cleveland.
As of Sept. 16, it appears Luke has removed the post.
WJW reported that city officials are also reviewing similar posts by two other employees, an EMS worker and a firefighter. It is not known how long the reviews will take.
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FireRescue1 readers respond:
“We are all entitled to free speech in this country; thousands have died to give us such freedoms. However, when you work in a job where you teach, serve, or treat people of every race, religion, and socioeconomic class, you are held to a standard where morality is everything. That said, even free speech has its consequences when you display yourself in such a manner that shows you are not capable of doing your job without prejudice and hate.”
“Get rid of the fire chief. He is not a leader and is not working to lower the violent tone.”
“Those involved, the chief, firefighter and EMS worker, should be fired immediately. There is no place for this activity in the fire service. We in the fire service take an oath to protect life and property.”
“It’s not just the fire department, it’s the whole city. He represents the entire city. He’s a disgrace. He should be fired immediately.”
“Anyone who celebrates the death of another through violence because of their beliefs or political stance has taken away the rights of that victim’s freedom of speech about which they themselves espouse.”
What role do personal social media posts from public officials play in shaping public perception of their department?
