Chicago Alderman Raymond Lopez has strongly criticized Mayor Brandon Johnson’s hiring practices, labeling them as a “giant leap in the wrong direction” following the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) announcement of a civil rights investigation into potential racial discrimination within the mayor’s administration.
The DOJ’s inquiry centers on remarks made by Mayor Johnson during a speech at the Apostolic Church of God, where he emphasized the importance of appointing Black individuals to key positions to ensure their interests are represented. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon stated in a letter to the mayor, “Considering these remarks, I have authorized an investigation to determine whether the City of Chicago is engaged in a pattern or practice of discrimination.”
Alderman Lopez expressed concern over the mayor’s approach, stating that it undermines the principles of equal opportunity. He remarked, “This is a giant leap in the wrong direction.” Lopez’s comments reflect a broader unease among some city officials regarding the potential implications of race-based hiring decisions.
Mayor Johnson has defended his administration’s diversity, noting that his 105-member staff comprises 34% Black, 30% White, 23% Hispanic, 7% Asian, and 5% multiracial individuals. He dismissed the DOJ investigation as politically motivated, stating, “This administration obviously demonstrated a great deal of animus and disdain toward what is sensible about our country, and that is the diversity of our country,” Johnson said in an interview with CBS News Chicago. “And I’m very proud of the fact that we have one of the most, if not the most, diverse administrations in the history of Chicago,” he added.
The investigation has sparked a debate over the balance between promoting diversity and adhering to anti-discrimination laws. While Mayor Johnson emphasizes inclusivity, critics argue that hiring decisions should be based on qualifications rather than race. The DOJ has not reached any conclusions and is seeking the mayor’s cooperation in the ongoing investigation.
