Chief Hood spoke about listening and learning from others different from ourselves
FirefighterNation Staff
SAN ANTONIO — Following the firing of a firefighter for a racist Facebook post, San Antonio Fire Chief Charles Hood took time while accepting an award to address racism, civil discourse, and his own personal experiences with racism.
The San Antonio Express-News reported that Chief Hood was recognized on Tuesday as Fire Chief of the Year, voted on by the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association, a group of fire service industry leaders from around the world.
During an event to accept the award Hood reflected on his own experiences as a black man and became emotional as he discussed the day that his uncle was pulled over, for no reason other than being black.
“Not much has changed since then,” Hood said, before turning his attention to his two sons, Langston and Sheridan. “I have to tell these guys every day to be careful. I have to pray for their safety. This movement means so much to me.”
The Express-News stated that it was rare for the chief to speak publicly about his personal experiences with racism until the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis reignited the conversation on police misconduct and racism.
Hood began using his position to discuss issues of racial bias, in a video on Facebook, walking in three local Black Lives Matter marches, and a video address to the department.
Message to the SAFD Family from Chief Hood from San Antonio Fire Department on Vimeo.
