U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett, a Democrat from Texas, made remarks during a House Judiciary Subcommittee hearing on Wednesday that have ignited a debate about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
Crockett recounted her experience being hired as a public defender despite having no prior criminal defense experience. She stated that she told her prospective boss, “Listen, you should hire me,” and when asked why, replied, “Because I’m Black.”
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Crockett explained that she believed her presence would allow her to establish a level of rapport and understanding with certain clients that her colleagues might not be able to achieve. Her boss ultimately hired her.
Crockett’s comments, made during a discussion about diversity in law enforcement, drew significant attention and criticism on social media. Many users, particularly on X, accused Crockett of admitting to being a “DEI hire.”
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The Libs of TikTok account posted, “INCREDIBLE. Democrat Rep. Jasmine Crockett publicly admits that she only got her job as a public defender because she was Black. Crockett is a DEI hire, CONFIRMED.”
During the hearing, Crockett defended the importance of DEI in the criminal justice system, arguing that victims of crime should see law enforcement officers who resemble them.
She emphasized the value of having law enforcement that “looks like me,” stating that it helps ensure that cases are investigated fairly, regardless of the race or gender of the victim.
She expressed concern about an administration that “is continuously railing against diversity, equity or inclusion.”
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