A popular online personality known as The Woke Ginger, whose real name is Justin Kralemann, has lost his bid to sue his former employer after being fired for criticizing a business that partnered with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Kralemann, who has nearly 750,000 Instagram followers promoting liberal causes and criticizing Republicans, sued Food Outreach Inc. He claimed he was terminated in February for his commentary on the Taylor family, which owns Enterprise Holdings, including Enterprise Rent-a-Car.
His criticism targeted Enterprise for renting vehicles to ICE and the family's political donations, which he noted largely favored Republicans. Kralemann also pointed to St. Louis City SC, a Major League Soccer team where the Taylor family holds a majority stake, for banning political flags such as Black Lives Matter and the trans pride flag from its matches.
Kralemann argued his firing violated Missouri state law protecting political speech. He contended that his termination was linked to an executive on Food Outreach Inc.'s board who also held a senior position at Enterprise.
Food Outreach Inc. is a nonprofit organization that provides medically tailored meals and nutrition support to individuals facing HIV or cancer. Enterprise has previously denied any involvement in Kralemann's dismissal.
Judge Joan Moriarty of the St. Louis City Circuit Court dismissed the lawsuit, ruling that Kralemann was terminated for publicly criticizing donors and board members of Food Outreach Inc., rather than for his political speech itself. The judge noted that Kralemann's online fame and his role with the nonprofit meant he had a responsibility to maintain the organization's public image, and that criticizing a donor, even for a minor reason, could negatively impact the organization.
Kralemann's attorney, Eddie Ernst, expressed disappointment with the decision and stated that they are reviewing the court's reasoning and considering an appeal.