DOJ to Investigate Chicago’s Job Hiring Practices Following Mayor Brandon Johnson’s Comments

The U.S. Department of Justice has initiated a civil rights investigation into the city of Chicago, as confirmed in a communication sent to the mayor’s office on Monday.

The DOJ is specifically looking into the city’s hiring practices.

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The decision to launch the investigation follows comments made by Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson during an event at the Apostolic Church of God in Woodlawn, which prompted a significant reaction on social media.

During his speech, Johnson outlined his priorities for the remainder of his term, underscoring the importance of education, public safety, and equity. Additionally, he highlighted the diversity within his administration, noting it as one of the most diverse in the city’s history.

“There are some detractors that will try and push back on me and say, ‘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,” Johnson said.

In a letter to the mayor’s office, the DOJ says Johnson’s comments highlighting the number of “Black officials” in his administration prompted this investigation.

“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 said.

Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon stated in the letter, in part, “If these kind of hiring decisions are being made for top-level positions in your administration, then it begs the question whether such decisions are also being made for lower-level positions.”

Johnson’s office released a statement on Monday afternoon, saying, “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.”

City Hall leaders are already reacting to the investigation.

“Hearing what he said and seeing this investigation, taking part, unfolding today. I think validates the concerns that many people have that this isn’t a mayor for everyone,” said 15th Ward Ald. Raymond Lopez.