A Detroit-area community has banned LGBTQ+ flags from publicly owned flagpoles. The unanimous vote by the Hamtramck City Council came during a tense meeting that raised questions about discrimination, religion and the city’s reputation for welcoming newcomers. The council voted to display only certain flags, including the American flag and one that represents the native countries of immigrant residents. More than 40% of Hamtramck’s residents were born in other countries, especially Yemen and Bangladesh. Some members of the all-Muslim council said the pride flag clashes with the beliefs of some members of their faith. Residents and businesses are free to fly pride flags.
It’s amazing how poorly government employees understand the constitution. Or if you prefer the more cynical view, it’s amazing how much government officials can knowingly get away with in terms of unconstitutional behavior.
The trick is that people believe the bill of rights is the only protection afforded by the constitution. The framers were against such a list of rights because it implies exclusivity and may ignore the precepts of the entire document: that we’re all created equal and entitled to the pursuit of happiness. Surprise, surprise. As soon as landed white men were not the only ones covered by it, suddenly we split hairs about the amendments instead of the point of the entire document.