Should Idahoans Be Fired for Their Opinions?

For the last week, controversy has been all over the internet. Since the death of Charlie Kirk on September 10, there have been many reaction videos. This story is not about where you stand politically, but it is about what has happened since that day. By now, most have seen videos of people celebrating his death, and this article is not about whether you like or dislike Kirk. This article is about opinion and freedom of speech. Many of these individuals celebrating Charlie Kirk's death have lost their jobs, but should they have?

Losing Jobs Over Social Media Reactions

All across the country, people have been losing their jobs, including in Idaho, Utah, and Washington. These people are being let go based on their reactions on social media, but should they be? In this country, people have the freedom of speech, and by firing them, are they losing that right? This isn't about whether you agree or disagree with their opinions as much as it is about whether a company should be able to fire someone for their social media and opinions. While many are upset about it and think companies are going too far, and individuals for sending these videos to companies as well, it isn't their opinion and freedom of speech that is costing them their jobs; it is their character and representation of the companies they work for. 

Fired For Bad Character in Idaho

When someone is online celebrating the death of another human being, it raises questions about the person's character. This isn't about politics; it is about who you are as a person. No company wants bad publicity, especially being known as having an employee who cheers for death. It doesn't help with customers, with clients, or with perception of the business. The type of job plays a factor as well. Having someone in a job that deals with the public is not going to go well. Having a job in the medical field where your job is to save lives is a bad look. If you are a teacher and are trusted to educate kids, it is not going to please parents if you are excited that someone died. These are only a few examples. 

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Everyone has the right to feel what they want about Charlie Kirk and what took place in Utah, but sometimes it is best to put the phone away and stay off social media. Just because you can and have the freedom to do so, doesn't mean you have to express your opinion. Should these people be fired? That's up to the company and is on a case-by-case basis.