Michigan Parents are calling for the resignation of one of their school board members following a racial rant on social media. Keesha Hamilton, whose ex-husband is white, called whiteness evil in a recent Twitter rant. Hamilton was elected to the Jackson school board in 2020 and is serving a 6-year term. Hamilton runs Diverse Minds Consulting, LLC, whose goal is to ‘fill the gaps that exist in the messaging and training of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and anti-racism.’ She has also endorsed anti-law enforcement sentiment.

One of Hamilton’s inflammatory tweets compared white people to animals, concluding that “white folks” are more dangerous. Her tweet said,

“The last thing you have to worry about is an animal – though that could be a very real threat..more dangerous are any white folks you may see on the trail..be safe!”

Another tweet she posted in December categorized people’s character based on their white skin saying,

“Whiteness is so evil..it manipulates then says, I won’t apologize for my dishonesty and trauma inducing practices and thinks you should applaud it for being honest about its ability to manipulate and be dishonest..”

Whiteness is so evil.. it manipulates then says, I won’t apologize for my dishonesty and trauma inducing practices and thinks you should applaud it for being honest about its ability to manipulate and be dishonest.. #Deceitful #Perfidious

— Kesha Hamilton (@kchamp06) December 18, 2022

 

When confronted about her racist statements, Hamilton refused to apologize for her offensive comments and instead doubled down on her racial rhetoric.

One frustrated parent called out Hamilton’s behavior saying,

“Her racist comments should not be condoned. How can all kids feel safe when physical characteristics over which they have no control are being called evil and dangerous.”

Another concerned parent said that a person in leadership should expect to follow higher standards of behavior and should be concerned about representing students of all colors, saying,

“Someone in her influential position must be held to a high standard. She must be a representative for all students in the JPS system. “

On Tuesday, Jackson’s school board meeting was moved to a different location after reports about outside groups protesting at the school emerged. Superintendent Jeff Beal said, “I received attention from several concerned citizens within the last month who are frustrated with the racial tones or undertones of trustee Kesha Hamilton’s social media. The people in Jackson County who want to speak against (Hamilton) or want to speak on her behalf – I’m used to that. It’s relatively calm and stable. But the minute we bring in outside agitators, I’m working with law enforcement to try to create a secure entry and exit for the board and myself. The auditorium simply gives us a much better way to control the crowd.”

Hamilton  insisted that she was free to exercise her rights and post the content she wanted to. She posted on social media thanking the community for their support following the meeting,

“I felt your support deeply in my spirit, and what was also very clear was your recognition of the Real Issue. Our students. Our teachers. Our data. The continuation of a racial equity focus. And the embracing of diverse leadership.”