The San Francisco Bay Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA) today strongly condemned the reported racist tirade by an Alameda County Fire Department (ACFD) firefighter, which was captured on video and widely circulated on social media. The incident occurred in San Joaquin County, allegedly following a car accident involving the firefighter and a community member.
SEE: Alameda County firefighter goes on racist rant against community member in TikTok video
The video, posted on TikTok last Friday, shows the firefighter unleashing a series of racist remarks toward the community member involved in the collision. In the video, the firefighter, appearing to be agitated by the incident, used slurs and demeaning language, including referring to the individual as a “Dumb*** Mexican or whatever the f*** you are, Filipino.” Despite the community member’s attempt to de-escalate the situation, the firefighter continued his rant, stating, “It doesn’t matter if I’m a racist, I’m a (expletive) firefighter.”
The Alameda County Fire Department has confirmed the incident and announced an internal investigation to determine the facts surrounding the encounter.
In a statement, CAIR-SFBA Executive Director Zahra Billoo said:
“We are deeply disturbed by the overt racism exhibited in this video. The firefighter’s statements are not only reprehensible but also indicative of a broader issue of unchecked bias within public service roles.
“We welcome ACFD’s decision to investigate the incident and urge a comprehensive and transparent process with decisive action to ensure this type of behavior is not tolerated within their ranks. The community deserves better from those who have sworn to serve and protect them.”
As a civil rights organization dedicated to protecting civil liberties and promoting justice, CAIR-SFBA remains committed to advocating for policies that combat racism and discrimination in all forms.
CAIR-SFBA is an office of CAIR, America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
END
CONTACT: CAIR-SFBA Communications Manager Lorrie Adam, ladam@cair.com, 408.498.5779