Baltimore Rock Opera Society Fires Executive Director Over Cornrows
Kelly Carnes was terminated after a video surfaced of her wearing cornrows at Burning Man, sparking concerns of cultural appropriation.
The Baltimore Rock Opera Society (BROS) dismissed its new executive director, Kelly Carnes, on September 23, following controversy over her cornrows hairstyle worn at Burning Man. The decision came after an extensive meeting on September 22, according to The Baltimore Banner.
Carnes stated that she wore the cornrows as a protective style against the desert elements at the Burning Man festival. However, her appearance subsequently raised concerns about cultural appropriation, particularly after a video of her at a BROS event with the hairstyle was shared on social media. The video has since been removed.
Carnes, who also uses the moniker "AWOL," expressed her shock at the termination, questioning whether the organization's publicly stated values of creative freedom were extended to its employees. "I believe the circumstances surrounding my termination raise serious questions about discrimination, governance, and whether the values BROS presents publicly are actually extended to the people it employs," she told The Banner. Carnes indicated she is consulting with counsel regarding the matter.
BROS had announced Carnes' appointment with enthusiasm on September 14 via Instagram, stating they were excited for new stories to unfold under her leadership. However, just two days later, the organization posted on Instagram that they were "taking action" in response to the controversy surrounding the video of Carnes' cornrows.
"We regret removing the video without an explanation and take responsibility for the confusion that [it] caused," BROS stated in their social media post. "more importantly, we are taking action."
Cat Litten, BROS' marketing and communications representative, told The Banner that the organization's leadership and community are focused on internal work to improve the experience for volunteers and the community. Carnes explained that the cornrows were part of a protective style that transitioned into longer braids and extensions, a context she shared with BROS when concerns were raised. She added that she was willing to listen and speak directly with anyone who was confused or concerned.