The state of Michigan does not require sexual orientation to be included within the subject of anti-discrimination clauses. Without the reinstatement of the anti-discrimination clause, the city will not sign the contract. Complicating the issue is a recently approved similar contract between the Washtenaw County Sheriff's Department and the school board that included specific language banning discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.
This conflict further illustrates the discrimination gays and lesbians face on a daily basis in a time when such discrimination should not be acceptable. The pathos of the Constitution guarantees equal treatment for all Americans - when discrimination abounds, the government's role should be to take the necessary action to prevent people's rights from being eclipsed. It is in this role that Ypsilanti acts when it refuses any contract that does not protect the rights of homosexual Americans. The city deserves credit for taking a stance that denies the ability to discriminate against citizens - many of whom pay taxes that support Ypsilanti schools - based on sexual orientation.
Police officers fill a vital role in society by protecting citizens from those that seek to harm others. Everyone must have equal access to their services when they are in need - solidifying the rights of a group that society has historically discriminated against is essential to any contract governing the actions of civil servants.
Also disturbing is the contradiction in the school board's behavior. Voting for a sheriff's department contract that protects gay rights while omitting the same element from the police department contract makes little sense. Such actions call into question the integrity and efficiency of the board as a whole.
One other concern not to be forgotten is the police officers themselves. This contract, once the two sides reach an agreement, will be retroactive to the 1996-97 school year. Police officers provide a very important service to society and they deserve to have the security a contract for their services provides. The delay caused by bickering over what should be a clear-cut issue robs the police of a commitment they deserve.
Discrimination is a vulgar part of society, but it is a part that cannot be ignored. Neglecting to ensure the rights of those who may be discriminated against is unacceptable. The Ypsilanti school board should follow the lead of its city government and include specific language that protects the rights of citizens regardless of sexual orientation.