A lecturer from the University of Texas at Arlington, Charles Hermes, has been put on administrative leave following his involvement in a controversial incident that garnered significant attention online. In a widely circulated video, captured during a pro-abortion rally in Fort Worth, Hermes could be seen confronting a Christian evangelist. The footage, shared on March 9, shows him shouting “No justice!” while the preacher attempted to communicate with onlookers.
During the confrontation, Hermes provocatively approached the street preacher, proclaiming, “I do, I believe in Jesus,” as he nearly invaded the evangelist’s personal space. The preacher, visibly unfazed, continued to preach, stating, “This is not your territory,” while holding a Bible at the rally. Among the crowd, one campus reporter inquired about the preacher’s presence, to which he expressed his concerns about societal issues and the moral decay he perceives.
Background and Reactions
The rally was part of a larger event organized by the Tarrant County Democratic Party, marking International Women’s Day with a focus on women’s rights and autonomy. Just before the rally, Hermes publicly shared his excitement about participating, labeling it a “perfect day for the International Women’s Day Marches.”
However, by March 7, he revealed in a heartfelt social media post that he had been placed on administrative leave after nearly two decades of teaching. Expressing his shock and emotional turmoil, Hermes stated, “I can’t stop crying. So much of who I am comes from my love of our students.”
A spokesperson from UTA confirmed Hermes’ leave began on March 8 but did not elaborate on specific reasons. Reports indicate that his suspension aligns with numerous prior complaints regarding his conduct in the classroom.
History of Activism
This incident isn’t an isolated event in Hermes’ career. Over the past year, he has faced legal troubles tied to civil disobedience, including an arrest at a pro-Palestinian rally in May 2024. The chair of the UTA Philosophy and Humanities department’s recent letter hinted at ongoing issues, linking his leave to complaints concerning his classes.
In the past, he has attracted attention for his social media remarks, which at one point appeared to endorse violence against political figures, leading to a wave of backlash and the deletion of those posts. Conflicts with various commentators further escalated tensions, highlighting his outspoken nature.
In prior advocacy efforts, Hermes has also taken significant stands against discrimination, having previously initiated petitions within the philosophical community aimed at challenging job postings that require statements of faith that could potentially exclude candidates based on sexual orientation.
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