U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett, a Democrat from Texas, made remarks at a House Judiciary Subcommittee hearing on Wednesday that sparked a debate about diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Crockett described 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, said, “Because I’m Black.”
Crockett explained that she hoped her presence would allow her to establish rapport and understanding with specific clients that her colleagues might not be able to do. Her boss eventually hired her.
Crockett’s remarks, made during a discussion about diversity in law enforcement, sparked widespread attention and criticism on social media. Many users, particularly on X, accused Crockett of confessing to being a “DEI hire.”
TikTok user Libs wrote, “INCREDIBLE. Democrat Rep. Jasmine Crockett has publicly admitted that she only got her job as a public defender because she is Black. Crockett is a DEI hire, confirmed.
Crockett defended the role of DEI in the criminal justice system, arguing that victims of crime should see law enforcement officers who look like them.
She emphasized the importance of having law enforcement that “looks like me,” claiming that it helps ensure that cases are investigated fairly, regardless of the victim’s race or gender.
She was concerned about an administration that “constantly rails against diversity, equity, and inclusion.”
