School Board Member’s Photo with Controversial Figure Ignites Debate in Columbia Community

COLUMBIA — A Photo that Sparks Controversy

The city of Columbia recently found itself at the center of a heated discussion after a local school board member was seen mingling with a polarizing figure. Elizabeth Barnhardt, a member of the Lexington-Richland Five school board, posed for a photo with Owen Shroyer, known for his role as a host on Infowars, a far-right media platform. The photo was taken during an event at the University of South Carolina on October 14, which included a debate about the presidential race.

Who is Owen Shroyer?

To give you some background, Shroyer has been in the news quite a bit lately. He was sentenced to two months in prison for his participation in the January 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol. Although he didn’t enter the building, he fueled the crowd with a megaphone and spread various conspiracy theories about the election. Furthermore, he has been connected to controversial statements regarding the tragic Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, promoting the unfounded idea that it was staged.

What Happened Next?

In her now-removed Facebook post, Barnhardt expressed admiration for Shroyer, calling him an “incredible American and patriot.” While this may have struck a chord with some, it obviously raised eyebrows among others, especially as she is a public figure overseeing an educational environment. The image and the comments from Barnhardt have since led to a wave of criticism, leaving many in the community questioning the implications of such associations.

Community Reactions

Social media has been buzzing with reactions. Many parents are outraged at the idea of a school board member holding a positive view toward a person who has publically downplayed a national tragedy and participated in a violent event. Danielle Gray, a parent from the district whose child attends Dutch Fork High School, didn’t hold back her feelings. “It’s just absolutely disgusting,” she stated, voicing her concerns about the safety of students in the Lexington-Richland Five system.

The local community is grappling with the fallout from this incident. Barnhardt, who was elected to represent the Chapin and Irmo areas in 2022, generally supports conservative views on the board. This isn’t the first time she has faced controversy; in 2023, she was part of the decision that stopped a Chapin High School teacher from teaching a lesson related to a Ta-Nehisi Coates book, which ignited further criticism from teacher groups.

Looking Ahead

The school district finds itself in a precarious position, as community members are calling for transparency and accountability. As families debate the implications of Barnhardt’s actions, they are also looking forward to a significant bond referendum of $240 million. How the school board handles taxpayer money and addresses concerns surrounding academic integrity and community safety will be scrutinized closely in the coming weeks.

The debate around leadership, accountability, and the values held by those in charge of educating our children never seemed more relevant. As the community reflects, one has to wonder what steps will be taken next. Will Barnhardt engage in meaningful dialogue with her constituents, or will this be just another chapter in a tale of discontent? Only time will tell.

For now, the city of Columbia watches closely as this story unfolds, each side of the debate echoing loudly in the hallways and classrooms of their beloved schools.