09/10/03  Double Standard

The DMN report on former Mayor Ron Kirk's comments about Bolton's firing proves the City Manager did not have a clue how to hire someone for one of the most important jobs in city government.  

As Mayor, Ron Kirk had the wisdom of questioning the management skills and mental toughness to match what is required of the Chief, which we all realize now he didn't.  Bolton was hired even though he wasn't qualified!  It had nothing to do with what he looks like.  

Mr. Kirk says he would have supported the decision to fire Bolton.  That brings up two questions.  

If Mr. Kirk had not resigned to run for the senate, and Bolton would have been fired at that time, would his firing have been a racist act?  

Would Ron Kirk been labeled a racist?  

I suspect the answer to both would be no!  

For a mayor of color and one who is White to be viewed differently on the same decision is the highest example of a double standard!