Incline Railroad Conductor Fired Over Independence Day Remarks
A Tennessee Incline Railroad conductor lost his job after making a controversial announcement to passengers on Independence Day. This came after a tourist reported his comments to the management.
Jack Peterson, who operated the historic attraction that has been in operation for 131 years, told those on board, “Happy Independence Day to the very few Americans here. For the rest of you, welcome to the greatest country on earth. If you don’t agree, please get out of here.”
Nathan Scherer, a vacationing passenger, recorded Peterson’s remarks and shared the video on TikTok, tagging it with “racism” and “xenophobia.” The clip quickly gained traction, amassing over 500,000 views.
Scherer also filed a complaint about Peterson with the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA), which oversees the incline.
“I was genuinely upset during the ride,” said Charles Scherer, Nathan’s father. “I felt it was important for the company to know about his comments, as he was the face of the organization.” He added that he wanted to make sure CARTA was aware of the situation.
Peterson, for his part, defended his statement, asserting it was not meant to be hurtful. “I’m extremely patriotic. It was Independence Day, and I was celebrating with fellow Americans,” he explained.
He further elaborated, “I believe our country is the greatest on earth. Expressing that if someone dislikes this country they can leave is a freedom we have that many nations do not.” Peterson insisted that his remarks were not rooted in racism or xenophobia, questioning, “If you don’t want to make this country better, why are you here?”
However, CARTA acted swiftly, confirming Peterson’s termination following the complaint. Scott Wilson, CARTA’s Chief of Staff, expressed regret to those affected by the situation, stating, “This should never have happened.”
Wilson emphasized the organization’s commitment to inclusivity, saying, “We have zero tolerance for language that demeans or excludes our fellow passengers. Every passenger riding the Incline Railroad should feel respected and welcome.”
