Anonymous Testimony — Submitted via Tipline

Verified Keokuk resident, former EMT trainee

“In early 2022, I tried to volunteer with KVEC. I had completed my EMT basic and was eager to gain field experience. I was introduced to Dan Tillman by another local responder who had worked with him before.

During the informal interview, everything felt off. Dan barely asked me any questions about my experience or motivation. He looked me over, asked where I lived, and then said something like, ‘We try to keep a certain image with the public — hope you understand.’

I wasn’t sure what he meant at first, but the friend who referred me later told me Dan had made a remark along the lines of: ‘We don’t need diversity points, we need discipline.’

That stung. I realized afterward I was never going to be accepted because of my skin color. I wasn’t lacking skill, commitment, or character — I was just Black.

I never submitted a complaint because I figured no one would believe me or they’d cover for him. But watching what’s coming out now, I know I wasn’t the only one treated like this.”