DNAinfo Chicago published an article regarding some Chicago firefighters expressing concerns over a new city hiring initiative. According to the report, the union representing firefighters is considering legal action against a city program that grants preferential treatment to graduates of the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) during the hiring process. This move comes as Mayor Rahm Emanuel highlights a fresh recruitment drive for the fire department.
Emanuel's office emphasized the ongoing recruitment process for the Fire Department, which remains open until September 16th. Applicants need to pay a $30 fee to apply, with a written test scheduled for December. The job listing specifies that individuals who have undergone fire or police training, along with family members of fallen public servants or military personnel, receive priority consideration for firefighter or police roles. Additionally, veterans and CPS high school graduates are given a hiring advantage.
However, this last criterion—favoring CPS graduates—is causing friction among some firefighters. Tom Ryan, president of the city's firefighter union, mentioned on Tuesday that there has been significant backlash from union members. They argue that as taxpayers and residents, everyone deserves equal opportunities regardless of their educational background.
Ryan noted that the Fire Department's hiring announcement was released just last week, leaving room for adjustments before the December exam. He expressed openness to negotiations, stating that circumstances could evolve further. Despite this, union board member David Quintavalle expressed strong dissatisfaction in a recent Facebook post. He highlighted that many union members chose private schools for their children due to personal or religious reasons, viewing the CPS preference as discriminatory.
Quintavalle insisted that if the union does not challenge the CPS preference clause legally, its members might take independent action to address what they perceive as unfair treatment. He argued that it is unjust to require union members, who already contribute financially to the CPS system through taxes, to also send their children to CPS schools to qualify for job preferences. He labeled this policy as outright discrimination, urging the city and the union to reconsider such practices.
Mayor Emanuel's spokesperson, Kelley Quinn, defended the policy, emphasizing that it motivates CPS students to complete their education and prepare for future careers. She clarified that the city aims to ensure at least 20% of applicants considered for positions with the CPS hiring preference are indeed CPS graduates.
While the situation remains fluid, both sides continue to deliberate potential resolutions. For now, the union is weighing its options, with discussions ongoing amidst the looming December exam deadline.
*Thanks Dan*
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