Editor’s note: Handshakes and Headshakes are my quick takes on local events, groups, or newsmakers whose actions, decisions or performance deserve to be celebrated or called out.
Mayor Aftab Pureval didn’t waste time showing William J. Burwinkel the door − and good riddance.
Burwinkel, a member of Cincinnati’s Citizen Complaint Authority, dropped 17 F-bombs and a racial slur during a June 2 public meeting. When given a chance to apologize, he didn’t. When asked to explain, he blamed a rap group. That’s not an apology − that’s an excuse. And a bad one.
The mayor met with Burwinkel for three minutes. That was all it took to confirm what was already clear: Burwinkel was defiant, unapologetic, and no longer fit to serve.
Pureval put it plainly: “I’m not interested in taking feedback from someone who doesn’t understand why using the N-word is inappropriate.” Amen to that.
Burwinkel claims he was just repeating the full name of the rap group NWA. But anyone with a passing grasp of cultural sensitivity − or common sense − knows better. No one says the full name. He said it to make a point. And now he’s paying for it.
The CCA exists to review and resolve citizen complaints fairly and efficiently. Their work is key to building trust between the police and the community. It cannot afford to be tainted by someone who sees no issue with using racial slurs or profanity in public meetings. Especially now, as the board investigates a controversial police shooting and other complaints − many involving Black residents.
Yes, Burwinkel has done good work with his nonprofit, Adopt A Class. But that doesn’t earn him a pass. In fact, it makes his behavior even more disappointing. What kind of example is this for the kids he mentors? That it’s fine to be vulgar and offensive in professional settings − as long as you have a resume?
No. He should know better. And the city deserves better.
There are plenty of pro-police voices who can serve with decency, respect and professionalism. The mayor can find one before City Council’s next meeting in August.
And if Burwinkel still thinks Pureval doesn’t care about the CCA’s effectiveness, he should take a long look at the exit he was just shown.
Opinion and Engagement Editor Kevin S. Aldridge can be reached at kaldridge@enquirer.com. X, formerly known as Twitter: @kevaldrid. You can message him with any recommendations for handshakes or headshakes.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Mayor Pureval was right to show Burwinkel the door for using racial slur | Opinion
Reporting by Kevin S. Aldridge, Cincinnati Enquirer / Cincinnati Enquirer
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