EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — An El Paso teachers union branch is warning its members to be careful about what they post on their personal social media platforms after the Texas Education Agency (TEA) began investigating 180 complaints of teachers “appearing to celebrate” conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s death.
“While the exercise of free speech is a fundamental right we are all blessed to share, it does not give carte blanche authority to celebrate or sow violence against those that share differing beliefs and perspectives,” read the statement released by Mike Morath, commissioner of education for the TEA.
You can read the full statement below:
President of the Texas American Federation of Teachers (TexasAFT), Zeph Capo, criticized the TEA’s statement, saying “people still have a First Amendment right to speak out on matters of civil discourse, without threats.”
The El Paso American Federation of Teachers, a local teachers union branch from TexasAFT, replied to the TEA’s statement by telling members to be wary of what they post on their private social media platforms.
“This letter was sent by Commissioner Morath to all Texas Superintendents regarding your personal social media activity. Yes, this is a real threat by Morath. Yes, people are already facing termination. Yes, this is not what Americans, regardless of political beliefs, should be subjected to by their government. And, yes, he can and will go after educators with a vengeance.
“I urge members, regardless of political views, to be circumspect in what they put up on their personal social media, Big Brother Morath and his minions are watching and hunting. As Voltaire said, ‘I may not agree with the words you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say.’ I urge you to think before you post. And, if you have posted in haste and anger, something that exceeds the bounds of civil discourse, you may want to reconsider.
“In Solidarity, Ross (Moore)”
According to reports from our parent station, Nexstar, teachers and school administrations around the country were put on leave in less than 24 hours after Kirk’s death.
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