I Understand the Impulse...I Disagree With the Position

Lt. Daniel McWilliams has sued both New York City and the FDNY Vulcan Society, alleging that he was removed from his role as a flag bearer at a 2017 memorial Mass for the group's deceased members because of his race.
(https://www.foxnews.com/…/white-fdny-lieutenant-sues-depart…)

According to the Daily News, "The lawsuit reveals an exchange between McWilliams and then-president of the Vulcan Society Regina Wilson regarding McWilliams' assignment to the ceremonial unit for the 2017 Mass, which was held at St. Philips Episcopal Church in Harlem.

“Lieutenant, I specifically requested an all-black color guard,” Wilson allegedly said.

"McWilliams, a 29-year veteran of the FDNY responded by questioning, “Are you removing me from the color guard because I am not black?”

"Yes I am," Wilson reportedly answered.

"After McWilliams was removed from the ceremonial team, his friends overheard "racially charged exchanges" which prompted the veteran firefighter to leave the church “to save himself from further shame, humiliation and embarrassment," the lawsuit claims.

“As a result of the defendants’ conduct, (McWilliams) has suffered severe shame, emotional distress and damage to his reputation,” the complaint reads. “Defendant Wilson ... intentionally, maliciously and publicly stripped the plaintiff of (his) prestigious honor ... on account of his race.”

"The lawsuit also accuses the department of “once again turning a blind eye to discrimination and creating a double-standard within the FDNY.”

I understand the position of Lt. Daniel McWilliams and he's absolutely right that U.S. law permits no such double standards.

However, I believe in ALL the rights accorded in our Bill of Rights, one of which is, "freedom of association." To associate with whomever we choose and to not associate with others.

THAT is what the courts should uphold for all. If the Emerald Society wants an "all Irish color guard," and the Vulcan Society wants an "all black color guard," BOTH are equally valid expressions of the right to freedom of association.

Such principles ARE "ALL or NONE."

In my view they should be upheld for all. The right to freedom of association is as valid and as vital as the right to freedom of expression and of self defense. It is a natural, or innate right, as defined within the Bill of Rights.

That said, I don't begrudge Lt. McWilliams lawsuit. In fact, if the court rejects his claim, it will affirm the right to "freedom of association" for all.
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