Overview

• The U.S. Department of Justice has launched a civil rights investigation into Chicago’s hiring practices under Mayor Brandon Johnson.
• The inquiry stems from Johnson’s comments at a Woodlawn church, where he emphasized the number of Black officials in top city roles.
• Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon authorized the investigation, citing potential violations of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
• Federal officials have requested a meeting with the mayor’s office and access to records to assess if a pattern of race-based discrimination exists.
• Mayor Johnson’s office has defended its hiring decisions, stating the administration is the most diverse in Chicago’s history and reflects the city’s values.