| The first amendment prohibits discrimination in place that provide public accomodation (restaurants, hotels, motels) and there are some exceptions for people who own limited numbers of rental units. Generally, individuals are free to discriminate to their hearts content, whether right or wrong - we can pick our friends, where we live, where we shop, etc. In the long run, all of us need to know that discrimination (or bias) is part of who we are, but should NOT be part of how we do business. Business can't post a "we reserve the right..." sign that lists all possible reasons. First, restaurants and other places of public accomodation *have* to obey the law. It is illegal to discriminate on the basis of gender, race, religion, etc. Second, how could a restaurant owner list all the possible reasons that might cause this situation to occur? Some measure of freedom must be given the business owner in deciding what type of person might be undesirable, negatively affect business, disturb other customers, etc. Finally, there are some types of "classes" that are not protected under the law - "homelessness" isn't a protected class. Neither is "gang member". Whether a business posts this sign or not, they still have the right to eject "undesirables". That may not make everyone happy, but it's a fact and it's generally the law. |
"The Right to Refuse Service to Anyone"