Firing of Baltimore Arts Executive Raises Discrimination Concerns

Kelly Carnes, a former executive director of the Baltimore Rock Opera Society, was dismissed in September following backlash over wearing cornrows. The controversy highlights accusations of cultural appropriation and raises potential discrimination issues under Maryland’s CROWN Act.

Attorney Jeremy Eldridge suggests the circumstances surrounding Carnes’ termination could be evidence of discrimination. The public statements made by the Baltimore Rock Opera Society regarding her hairstyle may play a crucial role if Carnes challenges her dismissal.

“Had the Baltimore Rock Opera simply separated from this individual without providing a discriminatory reason, the timeline would be all of the evidence that the fired employee would have,” Eldridge noted. He pointed out that public comments leaning into discriminatory allegations may indicate wrongful termination under the CROWN Act.

Carnes reported that she chose cornrows as a protective style for Burning Man and faced controversy upon returning to Baltimore. Despite the backlash, Carnes had been appointed as executive director on September 8, shortly after assuming her role.

The Baltimore Rock Opera Society removed a video featuring Carnes with cornrows after receiving community feedback, later expressing regret for not explaining the video removal. The organization has pledged to revise its anti-discrimination policy and enhance anti-racism training.

Carnes revealed she was advised against attending a town hall on the issue and was informed of her dismissal for being “not a good fit” days later. Eldridge mentioned the importance of establishing the motivation behind her firing to determine if it violated Maryland law.

The CROWN Act, enacted in Maryland in 2020, includes hair texture and protective hairstyles within its anti-discrimination protections. The law applies to employment practices, but determining if Carnes’ dismissal was unlawful remains contingent on the situation’s details and motivations.

The controversy extends beyond Carnes’ case, with several board members planning to exit the organization at year-end. A spokesperson for BROS declined further comment but emphasized the organization’s commitment to its internal community.