The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced on Thursday that it will investigate the employment practices in Minnesota, specifically focusing on allegations of racism and sexism.
Reports indicate that the Minnesota Department of Human Services has instructed supervisors to justify the hiring of non-minority candidates as a means to foster “positive behavior” in the workplace. Supervisors who fail to comply with this directive might face disciplinary action, according to a DOJ press release.
This employment guideline originated from a document set to be implemented on June 17, 2025, and defines “non-violating employment” as decisions made when no eligible non-minority candidates are available in the interview pool. The policy encourages supervisors to provide justification for their hiring choices.
Under this policy, “protected groups” are categorized as women, individuals with disabilities, and members of certain minority groups including Black, Hispanic, Asian, Pacific Islanders, and Native Americans.
“Federal law has consistently prohibited employment policies that discriminate based on race and gender,” stated Hermeet Dillon, an aide from the Trump administration’s Civil Rights Division. “The DOJ will not tolerate such practices and is committed to investigating any state involvement in biased employment practices regarding protected characteristics.”
Governor Tim Waltz of Minnesota initiated his administration with an executive order in 2019 to establish the “One Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity in Minnesota.” The aim of this council is to promote fairness within the state.
Waltz remarked, “Minnesota’s disparities based on race, geography, and economic status hinder our state from reaching its full potential. To tackle these issues, collaboration with the community is essential.” He noted the importance of engaging with all Minnesotans, whether they reside in St. Paul or East Grand Fork.
In March 2021, Waltz further advanced these efforts by launching the Governor’s Community Council on Inclusion and Equity. This council has worked towards implementing a 2022 action plan focused on enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in state governance.
The 2022 report suggested removing educational barriers to employment and ensuring diversity ratios across various sectors.
In 2023, Waltz appointed a Chief Equity Officer and chose Stephanie Barage, a former vice-chair of the Minnesota Department of Education, for the position.
The DOJ’s investigation follows another inquiry prompted by Chicago’s Democratic Mayor Brandon Johnson, who asserted that his administration was the most diverse. This raised concerns about potential violations of the 1964 Civil Rights Act.
Essentially, the Minnesota investigation aims to “determine whether the state is engaged in a pattern or practice of discrimination,” as outlined in the DOJ notification.
