I'm not posting about the legal aspects of the case here, although I think the correct decision was made. I'm normally a liberal-leaning woman who has been made uncomfortable by some of the decisions coming out of the Roberts court. It's worth noting that if Mr. Ricci had gotten his promotion, he'd have instantly become a great human interest story and proof that people can overcome disadvantages. This guy should be a great story for liberals and conservatives alike, since he embodies many of the qualities Americans cherish. Unfortunately, his extraordinary story got caught up in, and silenced by, a much larger issue.

The city made it clear that the exam was the standard by which promotions were decided. When others might've sought special treatment for his disability (dyslexia), Mr. Ricci buckled down, made hard decisions, and underwent a tremendous preparatory effort. His preparations clearly helped him perform well on the exam and gave him a reasonable expectation of being considered for promotion. Of course, when the city threw out the exam for reasons beyond Mr. Ricci's control, it was a slap in the face. When you do everything right and still get treated unfairly, what else are you supposed to do?