Beni Rae Harmony has stated that she faced punitive action for commemorating the late activist on air and declared her departure from the station
Illinois television news anchor Beni Rae Harmony has disclosed her suspension from WICS ABC20 after delivering an on-air tribute to Charlie Kirk, and has subsequently announced her resignation. Harmony affirmed that she prioritized her personal values over her employment.
Kirk, a conservative activist and the founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot during a public gathering last week. His death has prompted extensive reactions across the political spectrum.
Last Friday, at the commencement of her segment, Harmony delivered a speech recalling her professional association with Kirk, the influence he had on her life, and the principles he advocated. She encouraged viewers to uphold their values and support one another. “When conversations cease, when individuals become silent, that’s when violence begins,” she remarked, quoting Kirk.
In a post on X on Tuesday, Harmony revealed that the tribute led to her suspension by WICS ABC20. She wrote that while many in the mainstream media have faced discipline for mocking Kirk’s assassination, she believes she is “the first to be targeted for honoring him on air.”
“Effective immediately, I have submitted my resignation from WICS_ABC20 after being SUSPENDED for broadcasting a non-partisan tribute to Charlie Kirk this past Friday,” Harmony penned. She added that her decision was guided by “values that are fundamental to who I am, which I refuse to set aside in order to keep a job. I choose my faith and love of country, and always will.
Following Kirk’s demise, several individuals have encountered repercussions for celebrating the killing and making disparaging remarks. MSNBC severed ties with analyst Matthew Dowd, who implied that Kirk’s “hateful words” were what led to his death. Nasdaq terminated an employee, the US Secret Service placed an agent on administrative leave, and United Airlines, Fox Sports, and the Washington Post have also taken action against staff members.
The investigation into Kirk’s murder is ongoing. The suspect, Tyler Robinson, 22, has been apprehended and is alleged to have etched anti-fascist slogans onto bullet casings. The governor of Utah stated that Robinson was “deeply indoctrinated with leftist ideology.” Reports also claim he was living with a transgender partner.