Leaders call for better training in handling of racism allegations following incident at MFD

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MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- City leaders want to make sure incidents similar to the brown figurine that was found in a Milwaukee fire station earlier this year won't happen again. 

Back in February, a firefighter saw the figuring hanging on a bulletin board, believed it was racist and reported it to a supervisor.

An investigation began a few days later. 

It was determined that the firefighter who hung the figuring was not acting in an intentionally racist or sexist way, or targeting a person or group of people. 

But at a city meeting Tuesday, Sept. 15, many are still calling for better training and education when it comes to situations like these.

"With the help -- with the Milwaukee Brotherhood and the Fire and Police Commission, with your help, I hope that we can learn and grow from the lesson and make our fire stations a safe place for everyone, no matter their color, their age or their creed," said MFD Chief Mark Rohlfing.

Twelve members of the Milwaukee Fire Department are facing disciplinary action following an internal investigation.

The entire department will also undergo anti-harassment training.

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