DEARBORN HEIGHTS — The city has rejected a resolution to recognize HYPE Athletics as a non-profit 501(c)3 organization despite the federal government, the state of Michigan, and 12 other cities that have worked closely with it identifying it as such. 

HYPE Athletics CEO Ali Sayed has released a letter to the community, proclaiming that they will take further action against the city. 

“The discrimination that HYPE is facing can easily be identified as racial discrimination. Our stance is that our rights under the 14th amendment have been violated. HYPE is very proud of the diverse environment within the center. The issue stands that the effect of the decision by the city and the mayor will be directed at the thousands of families that we serve… As an organization we’re not treated equally within the city of Dearborn Heights and have valid verification of that. That proof will be made available to all at our community press conference in February,” Sayed’s letter to the community stated.

HYPE Athletics has been servicing thousands of youth and families across the Wayne County area since 2001 with a goal to provide a positive and constructive outlet through organized sports for children. In 2010, the organization was able to acquire a property owned by Wayne County in the city of Dearborn Heights that would eventually turn into the HYPE Recreation Center in 2012. 

Sayed had previously said the organization had numerous opportunities to build their recreational center in various cities but ultimately decided on the location in Dearborn Heights because the mayor had been adamant about working with them and recognizing them as a tax exempt organization. However, shortly after the building was completed, the city began billing them with taxes that eventually amounted to $140,000. To sign the petition visit www.gopetition.com and type in “Hype Athletics.”  Or visit www.hypeathletics.org  for more information.