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Justice Department Probes Austin's Alleged Discriminatory Hiring Practices

9/19/2025

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Justice Department is investigating Austin for alleged discriminatory hiring practices under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon announced the probe, focusing on race-based discrimination.
This investigation follows similar actions against other cities since President Trump took office.
Austin officials, including Mayor Kirk Watson, assert their compliance with the law and defend their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices.
Critics view the investigation as part of a broader attack on DEI initiatives nationwide.

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Story summary

The U.S. Justice Department is investigating Austin for alleged discriminatory hiring practices under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon announced the probe, focusing on race-based discrimination.
This investigation follows similar actions against other cities since President Trump took office.
Austin officials, including Mayor Kirk Watson, assert their compliance with the law and defend their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices.
Critics view the investigation as part of a broader attack on DEI initiatives nationwide.