An independent investigation into allegations of racism at Oregon’s Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) concludes the claims are unsubstantiated.
The complaints were from two former Black employees, Carol Johnson and Shaina Pomerantz. Both filed lawsuits saying there was racial hostility and discrimination at the bureau.
The Oregon Department of Justice appointed an investigator who reviewed correspondence and interviewed 20 people. Both Johnson and Pomerantz declined to participate.
Anne Marie Levis is interim communications lead for BOLI. She said the investigator questioned Johnson’s credibility on claims that a cowpie was shipped to her as a hate crime.
“Obviously still a very serious thing to receive – even a joke gift of cow manure- in the mail," said Levis. "But the dates did not line up. She had said she received them in June and the date on the package actually was August 15th."
Levis added that BOLI leadership strives for diversity and inclusiveness. She said BOLI Labor Commissioner Val Hoyle found the allegations “appalling”.
”There’s always more that people can do," continued Levis. "And the commissioner is committed to making sure that her leadership is diverse. And that people within the organization feel comfortable to be listened to and can make these types of complains and make sure something will happen with them.”
With BOLI cleared of the allegations, Levis said they’ll keep working on diversity initiatives.
The independent probe was conducted by an investigator with Stoel Rives Law Firm in Portland.
Neither Johnson nor Pomerantz could be reached for comment.
Another case alleging discrimination by BOLI - regarding a disability involving anxiety disorder - is still in federal court, according to the Pamplin Media Group.
Copyright 2021, KLCC.
