MILWAUKEE -- The Milwaukee Brotherhood of Firefighters has released a statement in response to the finding of a brown figurine found hanging by a pink looped ribbon in a Milwaukee fire station.
According to a news release on Feb. 13, Milwaukee Fire Department administration "was alerted to the presence" of the figurine. Which firehouse was not revealed by MFD officials.
MFD officials said an internal investigation began immediately, and upon being questioned, "the member responsible for bringing the figurine into the fire station and displaying it in the manner described self-identified."
The Milwaukee Brotherhood of Firefighters said in a statement, "We understand the firefighter who put up the noose admitted doing so, but said no offense was intended. This is hard to believe and if it is true it is a strong signal that some major re-education is needed, especially if this firefighter and every other firefighter who saw it do not see a problem with it. Remember we are citizens of a country with a history of racism and lynching Black people."
The statement goes on to read, "We should be better than this."
MFD officials said on Sunday, June 28 following the internal investigation, charges were drawn up "and are scheduled to be read this week." Additionally, officials said "numerous members will have letters of reprimand placed in their files, memorializing their failure to maintain good order."
Complete statement of the Milwaukee Brotherhood of Firefighters