An Adelaide high school teacher has been removed from his position following a controversial Halloween costume that depicted assassinated American conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
Costume Sparks Immediate Backlash
Guy Harrison, the design and technology coordinator at Urrbrae Agricultural High School, allegedly attended a staff-only Halloween party on October 31 wearing a bloodied shirt and fake bullet wound to impersonate Kirk. The American commentator was shot dead during a live debate in Utah back in September.
School principal Todd George confirmed in a letter to parents that Harrison had been "removed from campus" pending a full investigation. Mr George described the costume as "completely unacceptable" and apologised to parents for the incident.
School Community Divided
The controversial costume has created a sharp divide among parents and the wider school community. While some expressed outrage at the teacher's actions, others have defended him and called the response excessive.
"He's a favourite teacher. Teachers are just normal people. Why are we letting a minority, not even in Australia, dictate what's offensive?" one parent told local media.
However, mother Gemma Wilkinson, whose Year 11 daughter was taught by Harrison, acknowledged that "he probably should know better" but questioned whether the incident warranted dismissal.
Investigation and Similar Incidents
The Education Department has confirmed that Harrison remains on leave while the investigation continues. Questions have been raised about why it took six days for families to be informed about the incident.
This incident follows a similar controversy in Western Australia, where South Bunbury Football Club President Nicky Waite received a $1,500 fine from the South West Football League for wearing a similar Charlie Kirk costume to a post-season gathering.
The school has confirmed that wellbeing support has been offered to students who were aware of the incident, and Harrison was instructed to cover up and leave campus immediately after the costume was discovered.
