‘PRCC does not tolerate racism.’ Instructor resigns after George Floyd protest comments
A band director at Pearl River Community College in Poplarville is no longer employed there following an uproar over comments he posted on social media suggesting violence against protesters, according to media reports.
PRCC released a Tuesday statement from its president, Adam Breerwood, that condemned comments made by Reuben McDowell, assistant band director.
McDowell resigned from his post, PRCC has confirmed.
“I am saddened today,” Breerwood said in his statement. “I am distraught and disappointed. I have received hundreds of messages regarding recent comments that were made by a PRCC instructor who is no longer employed at the college. These comments do not reflect the values of this institution. PRCC does not tolerate the promotion of violence, hate or racism.”
Screenshots of McDowell’s comments circulated on Facebook, showing his reaction to a Fox News story about businesses burning in San Diego during Black Lives Matter protests sparked by the death of George Floyd.
One post by McDowell said, “Start shootin a few and the rest will scatter,” according to WLOX-TV.
Breerwood said in his statement that the comments don’t fit into his vision for PRCC.
“To the faculty, staff, students, alumni and all members of our surrounding communities please know this individual’s comments are not reflective of our values and beliefs,” he said. “Our college is a place of opportunity, a place to feel safe and secure, a place of family and unity. I want our children to live in harmony.
“On behalf of Pearl River Community College, please accept my sincere apology for the comments made by this former employee.”
McDowell joined the staff at PRCC in 2015.
This story was originally published June 2, 2020 at 6:38 PM.
