I’ve just experienced organizational politics for the first time. Earlier this month, our Chief of Staff, Adora Lewis got a position in the mayor’s office. Stephen, the research analysis got promoted to Chief of Staff; that means there is a position available in District 8. I think it goes without saying, that working for Michael Johnson means he has a lot African-American support in the constituency. I guess this support means they can influence who Michael hires. Adora is African-American, Stephen is American, and so am I. Basically what Stephen told me is that they can’t hire me because the constituency expects another African-American. That is the nice way of putting it. I don’t know how I feel about this. I know Michael needs to keeps his constituents happy, but to not give someone the job, just because they aren’t black? I know this is a sensitive issue, but I thought I should let you know how hiring decisions get made under elected officials.
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