WBIW.com News - state

Brought to you by WBIW News and Network Indiana

Firefighters Claim Discimination, Sue City And Fire Chief

Last updated on Thursday, February 7, 2008

(INDIANAPOLIS) - A group of Indianapolis firefighters have filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court claiming reverse racial discrimination in the promotion process.

Attorney Jeff McQuary says several Caucasian firefighters have been overlooked numerous times only to see African-American firefighters with lower rankings promoted to officers instead.

The fire department, much like the police department, uses a ranking system to identify potential candidates for promotion. The ranking is based on test scores and education, but final recommendations are at the discretion of the fire chief.

The lawsuit lists the City of Indianapolis and Fire Chief James Greeson as defendants.

McQuary says he hopes the Ballard administration will consider putting a stop to the practice and bring fairness to the promotion process.

The lawsuit also seeks back pay and damages for the firefighters overlooked for promotion.

1340 AM WBIW welcomes comments and suggestions by calling 812.277.1340 during normal business hours or by email at comments@wbiw.com

© Ad-Venture Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Click here to go back to previous page