Jefferson Hospital fires employee over hate speech on social media

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Thomas Jefferson University Hospital officials says an employee has been released after posting hate speech on social media.

On Tuesday, President and CEO Stephen Klasko and Chief Human Resources Officer Jeffrey Stevens released a statement on the hospital's Facebook page saying a Jefferson employee "posted inappropriate and inflammatory comments on social media about events regarding the recent shootings that have occurred in our country and the subsequent protests."

"Hate speech of any kind is unacceptable at Jefferson and is not consistent with our values, policies and the culture of inclusiveness, dignity and respect we continue to build here. We pride ourselves on ensuring that Jefferson is a safe community where our colleagues, patients and students respect and value each other. You should expect nothing less from our organization, or each other," the statement read.

The statement says "An employee's decision to post inflammatory comments on social media is an unfortunate choice and one that is not tolerated at Jefferson."

Officials said they would follow their established policies and procedures to address this issue.

A follow-up statement from Stevens on Wednesday read, "That individual is no longer at Jefferson."

"As a leader at Jefferson, I take very seriously my role in building bridges of understanding, respect and acceptance. I have experienced very personally, dozens of examples of employees who have selflessly given of their time and resources to ensure the comfort and safety of their patients, as well as their colleagues - staff who buy shoes for the homeless, employees who donate their time to refugee shelters or travel to Haiti to serve others less fortunate. These examples showcase the behaviors that truly define the Jefferson we all know," the statement read.

The full statements are below: