While Independence Day is obviously a good time to express patriotism, one Tennessee train operator may have taken things too far. He has since been fired from his job for his Fourth of July comments directed toward his passengers. However, some are hailing him as a hero.
The incident took place on Chattanooga’s Incline Railway, which goes up and down Lookout Mountain. While wishing people a happy Independence Day, the train operator commented on his perceived lack of Americans on the vehicle and offered anyone who dislikes the country a chance to leave.
He was swiftly fired following the incident. A spokesperson for the Chattanooga, Tennessee, Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) expressed agreement with the conductor’s sentiments that the U.S. is the greatest country in the world. However, they felt the way he expressed his patriotism was inappropriate. They also shared that they’re in talks to potentially rehire the individual.
That said, the conductor may not need his job back, as he’s since launched a GoFundMe campaign. The fundraiser has already exceeded its goal of $6,200 and, as of the time of writing, stands at $11,988.
Many people have taken to the internet to fume over the man’s financial support. One person wrote, “I feel like I’m in the wrong line of work every time I see this [expletive]. One racist crashout and now he doesn’t have to work for an entire year.” Someone else theorized, “Maybe that was his plan. Keep saying some inflammatory [expletive] on July 4. Hope someone captures it on film and complains. Tell the world you got fired for trying to freely express yourself on the 4th of July.“
Others chose to focus on the man’s actions themselves, rather than the public’s response. Comments such as “These morons have been emboldened,” “What a dork,” and “I felt the exhaustion in that [passenger’s] ‘shut up,’” surround the clip.
The train conductor in question has spoken out since the incident – he’s doubled down on his Fourth of July comments. In fact, he’s insisted that there was nothing racist about what he had said, and he questioned why anyone who didn’t want to contribute positively to the U.S. would be in the country at all.
Well, the people on that Tennessee train certainly have a story to tell about being stuck mid-air in the most awkward ride of all time. That’s definitely one way to celebrate Independence Day!
