| Related Links |
|
GLAA demands Fire Chief respect Human Rights Act 04/03/01 Chief's Policy Brings 2 More Suspensions (The Washington Post) 04/04/01 ACLU, Union Vow to Fight Fire Chief's Decision (The Washington Post) 04/04/01 Mayor affirms non-discrimination policy for religious liaison 03/07/01 Ramsey investigates offensive police messages 03/28/01 GLAA contributes 2 TTY machines to Police Department for deaf access 10/06/00 Mayor Williams Announces Anti-Discrimination Executive Order 10/03/00 Text of executive order on non-discrimination 08/21/00 Summersgill testifies on Few's nomination for Fire Chief 09/27/00 |
Graham writes Fire Chief on grooming standards, Human Rights Act
JIM GRAHAMCOUNCILMEMBER, WARD ONE
COUNCIL OF HE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
441 4th Street, NW, Suite 719
Washington, DC 20001
202-724-8181
202-724-8109 fax
jgraham@dccouncil.washington.dc.us
April 18, 2001
Ronnie Few, Fire Chief
Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services
Grimke School
1923 Vermont Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Dear Chief Few:
It has come to my attention that you plan to initiate a rigid interpretation of the Department's grooming standards specifically as related to hair length. I do agree with you that public image is important as well as esprit de corps. However, I would ask that your reconsider your present plans.
Some years ago, the Council enacted a DC Human Rights law that specifically prohibits 'discrimination on the basis of personal appearance. The litigation period that led up to this law was indeed contiguous and a decisive victory for those supporting individual expressionism (rights). In addition, the Supreme Court has decided that hair standards not related to safety concerns are illegal. I have found no evidence that suggests that the Department has engaged in such an assessment to determine if safety would be compromised.
Absent this evidence, I strongly recommend that you reconsider your present course. It is my feeling that it will not survive a legal challenge as well as may undermine your success with the Department to date. I would be happy to discuss this matter with you further, at your convenience.
Sincerely,
Jim Graham
Cc: Bob Summersgill
JG/fg
