DOJ launches probe into alleged racially focused hiring in Johnson administration

CHICAGO (WGN) — The US Department of Justice on Monday announced an investigation into whether Mayor Brandon Johnson’s administration made hiring decisions based on race.

At issue are comments the mayor made Sunday at the Apostolic Church of God in Woodlawn. Addressing the Black church, Johnson listed Black officials serving in is administration.

Among the statements that caught the justice department’s attention, according to a letter sent to Johnson by Asst. Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon:

• “… Business and Economic Neighborhood Development, the deputy mayor is a Black woman.”
• “… Department of Planning and Development is a Black woman.”
• “…infrastructure, deputy mayor is a Black woman.”
• “… Chief operations officer is a Black man.”
• “…Budget director is a Black woman.”
• “…Senior advisor is a Black man.”

Johnson, in his Sunday conversation with Pastor Dr. Byron T. Brazier, was speaking of the increased diversity in his administration compared to his predecessors.

“There are some detractors who will push back on me and say, ‘You know, the only thing the mayor talks about is the hiring of Black people.’ No. What I’m saying is when you hire our people, we always look out for everybody else. We are the most generous people on the planet,” he said. “I’m laying that out because when you ask how do we ensure that our people get a chance to grow their business, having people in my administration that will look out for the interest of everyone, and everyone means you have to look out for the interest of Black folks, because that hasn’t happened, that’s how we ensure long-term sustainable growth.”

The comments set off a social media firestorm, catching the attention of conservative commentators and media, prompting justice officials to open an investigation into whether the Johnson administration may have violated Title 7 of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

In the letter, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division writes:

“When the Attorney General has reasonable cause to believe that a state or local government employer is engaged in a pattern or practice of discrimination in violation of Title VII, it is the Attorney General’s responsibility to take appropriate action to elimination the violation, including seeking injunctive relief….Our investigation is based on information suggesting you made hiring decision solely on the basis of race.”

The Justice Department notes it has not reached any conclusions, but it wants to learn more about the city’s hiring decisions.

Following WGN News’ request for comment, the mayor’s office issued a statement: “Mayor Johnson is proud to have the most diverse administration in the history of our city. Our administration reflects the diversity and values of Chicago. Unfortunately, the current federal administration does not reflect either. We are aware of the letter issued by the Department of Justice, but are awaiting the official receipt of the letter. Our Corporation Counsel will review it at that time.”