Wayne County slavery ordinance goes into effect today

• Originally published in Craine's Detroit Business on 5/17/2004 [here]

Wayne County executive Robert Ficano said today he supports the decision by the Wayne County Commission to require companies wishing to do business with the county to research and disclose whether they or any predecessor businesses had profited from the institution of slavery. The ordinance, which was passed May 7, goes into effect today.

"Based on research findings that the ordinance is not unconstitutional and will not negatively impact economic development decisions in Wayne County, and after discussions with business leaders, I have decided not to veto the ordinance," Ficano said in a statement.

County commissioners who backed the ordinance said they passed it to gather information and correct history about slavery. The data also could be used to seek reparations to compensate descendants of slaves, they said.

Ficano said it will not be punitive nor will it restrict the county in attracting, retaining or expanding development or creating jobs in the county.