I’ve never understood the desire to fire people (non-journalists) for distasteful comments...and the only reason I make an exception for journalists is that it demonstrates an inability to be neutral.
Well, let me explain it to you. The goal in business is to make profit. Reducing customers by offending them reduces profit. Thus, you fire people who reduce your customer base. Strictly business.
Because in every employment contract or job description is the line about doing things that reflect badly on XYZ, Corp.....whether on the clock or not.
Its the same reason some kid on a Big Ten football team gets booted from the team or possibly even expelled for a DUI.
When one of your employees does or says somethink like this, it does reflect badly on your business and the best thing is to sever ties as quickly as possible.