Freedom of Speech appreciates the many emails sent by the citizens of New Albany. This letter was sent to us. The author said a copy was sent to the Editor of the New Albany Tribune for publication.
Even though this is not a regular practice of Freedom of Speech we decided to contact the author for permission to reprint her letter.
After verification and with the permission of the author we have decided to post this letter on Freedom of Speech without changes.
"February 7, 2006"
"Dear Editor"
" I attended the City Council meeting last night, 2/6/06. During this meeting I witnessed an exchange that disturbed me.
A representative from the Fire Fighter's Union had asked for changes in the manner in which firefighters are chosen. There was some thought that the decision making was based on political affiliations more than on the results of the various tests. Mayor Garner joined in the discussion and stated that even though he has the final decision the processes is not based on politics. He later added that the written test needed changes. The reason for this, he explained, was that minorities had trouble passing this test. He even went as far as stating that minorities such as women, African Americans, and Hispanics cannot pass this test, " A known fact", he said.
I find this statement extremely offensive. As a woman of a certain age I have encountered discrimination in the workplace, hearing such remarks as "It's a man's job" and other equally ignorant remarks. Not being a person of color, I can only imagine what others have had to endure.
We all attend the same schools, have the same teachers, and are entitled to the same opportunities.
It is time that this mayor joined the 21st Century. I also believe that he owes every citizen of New Albany an apology, especially the people who applied for a position on the New Albany Fire Department, regardless of their race, color, gender, or ethnic background. Discrimination hurts everyone."
Shirley Baird
New Albany, Indiana
The participants of Freedom of Speech wish to thank Ms. Baird for her email and wish to encourage others to email this blog with their comments or concerns about our city.
