MINNEAPOLIS — The new Minneapolis Department of Civil Rights director was sworn in Tuesday after the city council unanimously confirmed her for the role.
Michelle Phillips will lead the department, which aims to investigate discriminatory practices against members of protected classes. The department also investigates and makes recommendations about complaints brought against any Minneapolis police officer, according to the city website.
Phillips came to Minneapolis after working as inspector general for the city of Oakland, California. Before that, she worked as deputy inspector general in Baltimore. Mayor Jacob Frey said in a press release Minneapolis needs leaders like her.
“Acknowledging the pain that has permeated throughout this City is important. Identifying a path forward with tangible solutions and sustainable impact is vital,” Director Phillips said in a press release Tuesday.
“Mayor Frey’s administration and the City Council have a vision of equitable, just and accessible services for residents and business owners. I share that vision. As a child I was told that the color of my skin and gender would hinder my opportunities, but if I remained resilient and dedicated to my purpose, I would be able to wage an impact. Minneapolis is resilient, and so is the Department of Civil Rights.”
Phillips' swearing-in comes five months after former Civil Rights Director Alberder Gillespie was dismissed from the job by Mayor Jacob Frey on the recommendation of City Operations Officer Margaret Anderson Kelliher, alleging concerns about the department's handling of responsibilities for the Office of Police Conduct Review.