A senior official from FDNY has resigned amid backlash after leading a questionable game involving predominantly Black students at a Brooklyn high school called the “Cotton Ball Relay Race.” Critics have labeled it as racist.
Michele Maglione, who served as the assistant committee member in charge of youth workforce development, saw her 20-year career tarnished after about 35 students participated in the game on August 21 during the summer “Leadership Academy” at FDNY-Capt. Vernon A. Richard High School for Fire and Life Safety.
This peculiar game—often seen in summer camps—had players covering their faces with petroleum jelly and trying to carry as many cotton balls as possible with their heads while their hands were tied behind their backs. It was presented as a “team-building exercise.”
Maglione, who is of Caucasian descent, shared a lighthearted video of the game on social media that showed students seemingly enjoying themselves. However, the reaction from some within the FDNY was starkly different. Critics voiced concern about the game’s implications, referencing the historical context of slavery and the act of cotton picking.
After an internal complaint, Maglione was removed from her position and opted to resign rather than face disciplinary actions. “Once the department became aware of the incident and the social media posts, we quickly initiated an investigation,” a spokesperson for FDNY stated. “Consequently, this individual has been permanently removed from her role.”
Insiders view this event as a disappointing conclusion to Maglione’s career with FDNY. “It was a poor decision,” noted a source. “I’ve known Michele for years; she’s a good person who cares about the kids. It wasn’t intentional, just a misjudgment.”
Meanwhile, Cara McCammon, a 24-year-old who attended FDNY’s EMS Youth Academy, critiqued Maglione for fostering a “hostile environment.” After making her complaints known on Instagram, she claims she faced repercussions that impacted her final exam in the program, a claim FDNY has not addressed.
“It’s unfortunate she chose such an inappropriate event to showcase her character, but it’s good that the truth is surfacing,” McCammon stated, now working with children with autism. “The game felt very demeaning. There are plenty of other activities. Why this one?”
Maglione has not offered any comment from her home in Dyker Heights.
Mayor Eric Adams criticized the game, emphasizing the sensitivity surrounding the history of cotton picking. “I found it offensive, and many who reached out to me felt the same way,” he said, referencing his earlier comments on PIX-11 about the controversy.
NYC school Chancellor Melissa Aviles Ramos also condemned the incident, stating, “This kind of behavior is insensitive and does not align with our values. We appreciate FDNY for their swift action.” She reiterated the commitment to ensuring that students are treated with respect and support.
