NAPLES, NY — A grassroots organization has scheduled what it bills as a peaceful rally and discussion in the wake of alleged comments about the shooting death of a conservative activist made by a Naples staff member, whom the group is seeking to be fired.
The rally is scheduled for 3 p.m. Sept. 20 at Naples High School, 136 N. Main St., Naples.
Turning Point: Finger Lakes Region is promoting the rally as a family-friendly event where people can gather and peacefully let their voices be heard.
What we know now
Turning Point USA founder and conservative activist Charlie Kirk, 31, was shot while speaking at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10 during a question-and-answer session. He later died from his injuries. He leaves behind his wife, Erika, and two young children.
The late co-founder and president of Turning Point USA Charlie Kirk speaks at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) at National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland, U.S., February 28, 2019
The Naples staff member was placed on administrative leave pending an investigation into alleged social media posts referencing the shooting of Kirk. A formal investigation is underway and will follow district policies and procedures, according to a statement from the district superintendent.
Who is the Naples staff member?
The staff member has not been officially publicly identified, and the specific content of the alleged posts has not been officially disclosed.
The Democrat and Chronicle has not independently confirmed the name of the staff member but is actively seeking a response from the person the group identifies as the alleged employee in advertising for the rally. A name is also circulating on social media.
Another area school district faced a similar situation in the aftermath of the Kirk shooting.
A LeRoy school district teacher, who was placed on administrative leave following the discovery of inappropriate and inflammatory social media posts made from a private account, has since apologized and reported that the account had already been deleted.
Why do some want more punishment for Naples staff member?
Although the Naples employee is suspended and the group appreciates the swift action when the issue was brought to the attention of district officials, there are consequences to people’s actions and this “level of disregard for human life” should result in permanent termination, according to a comment attributed to rally organizer Matt Crane.
The staff member’s “profanity-laced” posts were described by the group as “hate-filled rhetoric.”
“We are seeking accountability and will not stop until that is achieved,” according to Crane.
Speakers are expected to address those who turn out for the rally, although the group declined to identify who they will be.
Crane said support for the group has been “amazing.”
“We believe it is time for people to stand up for what is right and moral,” Crane stated. “In a sense those of us who hold to the foundations of morality, ethics and integrity are all Charlie Kirks.”
This story includes reporting by Gannett reporters Madison Scott and Emily Barnes.
Mike Murphy covers Canandaigua and other communities in Ontario County and writes the Eat, Drink and Be Murphy food and drink column. Follow him on X at @MPN_MikeMurphy.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Charlie Kirk death prompts rally in Naples NY over alleged posts
