The Department of Justice (DOJ) has initiated an inquiry into the state of Minnesota, particularly examining whether the Minnesota Department of Human Services is practicing discrimination in its hiring processes based on race and gender.
Assistant Director Harmeet K. Dhillon from the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division noted that this investigation stems from indications that Minnesota might be involved in discriminatory employment practices, violating Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. This information was shared in a letter to Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison and Syreen Gandhi, a temporary member of the Minnesota Human Bureau.
In a two-page communication, Dhillon stated there is credible reason to suspect that the Minnesota Department of Human Services is partaking in unlawful practices, notably through its “employment justification” policy.
This policy was recently introduced; it mandates that supervisors justify hiring decisions for candidates outside of “lower” categories for roles in underrepresented positions.
The Trump administration had previously taken a strong stance against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, arguing they discriminate against certain groups, including Asians and white individuals.
Responding to the allegations, the Minnesota Department of Human Services claimed to adhere to all state and federal employment regulations. They emphasized that the requirement for justification in hiring certain candidates has been in place since 1987, as per state law.
Former President Trump and his allies have criticized Minnesota’s leadership, including Governor Tim Waltz, who is set to be Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate in the upcoming 2024 elections. Ellison has also pursued legal action against the administration regarding these matters.
Attorney General Pam Bondy expressed on Thursday that Minnesotans should be able to hire state officials based on merit, rather than being influenced by what she referred to as illegal DEI practices.
