Douglas Anderson School of the Arts teacher Hope McMath, known for her vocal advocacy in arts and social issues, has been temporarily reassigned following a contentious post she made on Facebook criticizing Jacksonville City Councilman Rory Diamond. The post, dated September 10, follows intense debate over budget amendments proposed by Diamond aimed at reducing local funding for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, as well as initiatives related to abortion and immigration. These measures were ultimately overturned during a 13-hour City Council meeting held on September 23, as Action News Jax reports.
McMath's social media post was direct, stating, "Racist dog whistles abound on Jacksonville’s City Council. It was on full display last night as the grand wizard who calls himself Rory Diamond attempted to attack every group of people - his constituents - that do not look like him," according to the First Coast News. She added, "His MAGA maneuvers are gross and dangerous. Gratitude for the Council people who stood up against this foolishness and walked out. Because if you aren’t standing up against this shitty treatment of our neighbors then get out of the way. We are ALL harmed by this grandstanding and misuse of power."
The social media post has gained attention within an educational environment already under review for how educators share political and social views online. Duval County Public Schools has confirmed that an investigation is underway. In addition to her role in education, McMath is a well-known cultural figure in Northeast Florida, previously involved in efforts such as the debate over Confederate monuments in Jacksonville and the operation of Yellow House Art Gallery, a space centered on socially engaged art, as detailed by News4Jax.
