Sometimes you get a "do over" Derek Dieter

I'm one of many citizens who got a letter last year from Councilman Dieter explaining his refusal to vote in favor of extending basic legal protections on the basis of sexual identity and/or orientation - protections that don't exist now. I found that letter more than a bit perplexing.

For one thing, I don't live in his district - and it was on Common Council letterhead. But it was the message I found a bit of a head scratcher, in retrospect.

He claimed that he agreed that protection from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and identity was important. He fretted, however, that the language of the amendment was problematic and subject to appeal.

Sounds reasonable enough. But citizens are still waiting for a draft from him which will overcome that concern of his. Also, it turns out that the same language was implemented in Indianapolis, and has been in force for approximately two years - without any legal challenge.

Heck, Mr. Dieter - we all get it wrong now and then. What matters is what you do next.

What you get to do now is the right thing. Turns out the language is fine. So you can vote yes with confidence.

Unless, that is, you weren't telling me the truth.

Don Wheeler