Strengthening its leadership in the fight against discrimination, Minneapolis has tapped an Oakland watchdog to head its Civil Rights Department. Mayor Jacob Frey, in collaboration with City Operations Officer Margaret Anderson Kelliher, announced the nomination of Michelle Phillips – currently Oakland's Inspector General – for this key post. Phillips' journey to Minneapolis represents a staunch commitment to upholding citizen rights and rooting out government corruption.
With a résumé that boasts experience as Baltimore's former Deputy Inspector General, Phillips arrives in Minneapolis praised for her track record in police oversight and battling fraud. Serving as the inaugural Inspector General in Oakland, she forged a path in promoting constitutional policing and ensuring fairness in investigative processes. according to a recent announcement from the Mayor's office, leading an investigative team prior that focused on exposing fraud and reinforcing public trust during her tenure in Baltimore.
If the City Council confirms her nomination, Phillips will be at the helm of a 46-employee department that’s instrumental in enforcing city ordinances, investigating discrimination, and advancing civil rights understanding. A key challenge remains the oversight of police conduct and furthering the city's settlement agreement with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights on police reform efforts. "Michelle has dedicated much of her professional life to enhancing accountability in government," Mayor Jacob Frey stated, underscoring his confidence in her abilities.
Phillips' expertise is not only drawn from investigative roles but also in steering communities through the complexities of police reform. Echoing this sentiment, City Operations Officer Kelliher heralded Phillips as a beacon of leadership and experience, particularly when it comes to the delicate nuances of police oversight measures. Her appointment is seen as crucial at a juncture when Minneapolis is pressing forward in civil rights matters.
Grateful for the opportunity, Phillips shared her dedication to fostering a just and equitable city, saying, "I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve as the next Director of Civil Rights,” according to the statement released by the Mayor's office. "This is a critical time for civil rights, and I am dedicated to working with all stakeholders as we move towards a more just and equitable Minneapolis." Her role, pending confirmation, will commence in July, marking a new chapter for Minneapolis and its citizens.
