DOJ Investigates Chicago’s Employment Practices

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has initiated a civil rights investigation into how the Chicago government handles employment practices. This comes after Mayor Brandon Johnson claimed on Sunday that he leads the “most diverse administration” in the city’s history.

A letter from Civil Rights Division Attorney General Harmato Dillon addressed to Johnson outlines the investigation’s aim to determine if the city is engaged in what could be seen as discrimination, contrary to Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The letter mentioned that there was information suggesting recruitment decisions might have been influenced by race.

The correspondence included examples of positions filled by black officials, as noted by Johnson during a speech at the Apostle Church of God in Woodlawn.

Johnson highlighted several roles, saying, “The vice mayor and heads of various departments are black women, and we have black men in leadership roles as well.” He emphasized the representation within his administration.

The letter also raised concerns about whether similar hiring patterns extend beyond upper management to lower-level positions.

During an interview, Rev. Byron T. Brajar pressed Johnson on fostering partnerships with capable black-owned businesses. The reverend remarked that Chicago’s black residents don’t seek handouts but rather want substantive business opportunities.

He posed a challenging question regarding equitable distribution of benefits from the city’s substantial spending. Johnson responded by invoking civil rights leader Pastor Jesse Jackson’s words: “Our people hire our people.”

In essence, Johnson appeared to suggest that by appointing black officials to key roles, he’s paving the way for business growth among the city’s black residents.

He compared the racial composition of his administration with past leadership, noting a significant shift from prior administrations that were predominantly white. Johnson reported that 45% of his team identifies as black, alongside Latino and white representation.

“What I’m saying is that when we hire our people, we’re inclusive of everyone,” Johnson stated, underscoring a commitment to diversity.

In a response to the DOJ’s inquiry, Johnson’s office asserted that he is proud of the diversity in his administration, which they believe truly reflects Chicago’s character and values.