Auburn University Faces Backlash for Employee Layoffs

Auburn University has recently earned some approval from certain Alabama political figures after the institution announced the layoffs of staff members involved in social media posts deemed “harmful and insensitive,” which contradicted the university’s principles of respect and integrity.

Auburn University President Christopher Roberts issued a statement saying, “We have terminated the employment of those individuals. This behavior contradicts our cherished values at Auburn.” He emphasized the importance of maintaining a respectful and supportive campus environment, noting that actions that trivialize violence are not suitable within the university’s community.

While Roberts did not specify which employees were affected, the announcement follows a social media post by Seth McCollough, who reportedly mocked the death of Charlie Kirk. McCollough, also known as “Colana Bleu,” is a drag queen and previously taught at Drake Middle School before being let go for using his platform to discuss gender and sexual topics with students.

In a Facebook post, McCollough expressed his feelings about Kirk’s passing, indicating a lack of empathy: “I hope his kids will become better people now that Dad can’t vent his hateful nonsense. He literally hated me first.”

U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) supported Auburn’s decision, stating it was the right course of action. She expressed concern over the rhetoric and behavior of these so-called “educators,” insisting that it poses a danger to younger generations.

Former Auburn football coach and current gubernatorial candidate, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn), also expressed gratitude towards the university for their swift action against the employees involved. He praised the decision to remove individuals who he felt were laughing at such a serious matter.

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, who is running for a Senate seat, similarly commended the university for their decision.