Build a Bridge and Get Over it!

What are your initial reactions to Kelly's disqualification?
I was appalled not only because I too am Muslim and happen to wear the headscarf (or shall I say hood) as well, but because she is such an amazing runner and something so minor has hindered her dreams and goals. I thought the beauty of living in America was the diverse people and traditions. How come we can’t appreciate the fact that she is a devout Muslim and wears the head cover out of modesty?
2. What is your argument regarding the assertion that Kelly's disqualification constitutes religious discrimination? Does the disqualification of other athletes for non-religious reasons affect your response? If so, why or why not?
If the officials told Kelly to take her head cover off, that is sheer discrimination. Where in the rules does it say no head cover? And do these “rules” accommodate for the handicapped people who might be allergic to the sun so they must resort to hats and head covers? Do you think that there aren’t people like that? There are plenty. The disqualification of other athletes for non-religious reasons was not discrimination that was merely because the rule was only solid colors, but there was no rule that specifically said “no head covers”. If they would have told Kelly only solid colored head scarfs, she would have probably accommodated.
3. If you were to write an argumentative essay on this decision, what further information would you need to obtain to construct a more logos-based argument and counterargument?
I would like to know more about the dynamic of the rules. Also, if history shows that these rules are strictly abided by and implemented. I would also like to see if the athletes are well aware of these rules or if it was written in white ink on white paper on the contract that they signed prior to the race. I would also like to see if the rules accommodate religious and personal needs.
4. How effectively does Rogers defend his stance?
Not well at all. He gave the typical reasoning. He said “Every sport has uniform rules. It has nothing to do with religious discrimination. They were provided with several options that would have allowed her to run without taking off her head covering"”. What “several options” is Rogers talking about? Obviously if there we many other options that Kelly could resort to without taking off her headscarf, she would have.
5. What are some potential solutions to pursue regarding implementing track rules?
The officials need to take into consideration before setting thoughtless rules that infringed on religious and personal regulations. They should reformat their rules and regulations. They should embrace the diversity of this country along with the various religions by not making the uniforms too intricate.
6. If the single solid color rule was implemented so that judges could more easily distinguish the results of a close finish, would this change your response to Kelly's disqualification? Explain your answer.
It would in some aspects. The only aspect I am disputing is the fact that Kelly would have to remove her head scarf. Keeping the wardrobe a certain color to distinguish the results of a close finish sounds fair. If it helps determine a fair win then there is nothing wrong with that. As soon as it infringes on an individuals autonomy that is when it crosses the line.