Albuquerque

Keller ‘proud’ NM counties, cities listed as ‘sanctuaries’ for criminal aliens

39 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

As the Trump administration moves decisively to uphold federal immigration laws and protect American citizens, far-left Democrat leaders in New Mexico are proudly doubling down on their defiance. 

Chief among them is Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, who took to X to gloat about the city’s inclusion on the Department of Homeland Security’s official list of “sanctuary jurisdictions” — an indicator of non-compliance with federal immigration statutes.

“We expected this designation — Albuquerque’s immigrant-friendly policies reflect who we are,” Keller posted, calling it “a badge of courage” and vowing not to be “bullied” into enforcing federal law. Rather than expressing concern about the potential loss of federal funds or the safety implications of harboring criminal aliens, Keller made clear that his administration is committed to ideological resistance, no matter the cost to law-abiding residents.

The list, published on May 29, includes 23 New Mexico counties and two cities — Albuquerque and Santa Fe — that, according to DHS, refuse to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. This followed President Donald Trump’s April 28 executive order directing federal agencies to withhold funding from jurisdictions that shield illegal aliens from deportation.

In a statement that underscores the lawless posture of sanctuary cities, DHS wrote: “Each jurisdiction listed will receive formal notification of its non-compliance with Federal statutes. DHS demands that these jurisdictions immediately review and revise their policies to align with Federal immigration laws and renew their obligation to protect American citizens, not dangerous illegal aliens.”

But rather than taking this warning seriously, Democrats like Keller seem emboldened. His X post reflects the same out-of-touch political theater that has defined the progressive left’s stance on immigration, where shielding criminal aliens is viewed as virtuous, and federal law is something to scoff at.

Indeed, it’s not just defiance — it’s negligence. The dangerous policies pushed by Keller and fellow Democrats, including far-left Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, jeopardize public safety and disrespect the rule of law. The governor’s office, instead of committing to work with federal authorities, issued a deflective statement suggesting that counties might have been “mischaracterized.” No apology. No commitment to course-correct. Just more spin.

Meanwhile, radical organizations like the New Mexico Immigrant Law Center are already planning to double down in the next legislative session to further “protect” illegal immigrants, with the enthusiastic backing of progressive lawmakers and municipal leaders.

It’s no wonder New Mexico continues to struggle with crime, drug trafficking, and cartel violence. Sanctuary policies attract criminals, overwhelm resources, and endanger legal residents. President Trump’s administration is finally putting sanctuary jurisdictions on notice. Whether New Mexico Democrats will ever put citizens first remains to be seen — but judging by Keller’s gloating, their loyalty lies not with the American people, but with lawlessness.

Keller ‘proud’ NM counties, cities listed as ‘sanctuaries’ for criminal aliens Read More »

Libs lose their minds after YouTuber calls out ABQ’s ‘Zombie Land’

33 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Albuquerque’s International District, long referred to as the “War Zone” and more recently as “Zombie Land,” has gained fresh national attention after a viral YouTube video exposed the harsh realities of crime, drugs, and homelessness in the area. YouTuber Nick Johnson, known for his “Unboxing America” channel with over 1.1 million subscribers, took his audience on a raw, unfiltered tour of the district—and liberals are losing their minds over it.

“Oh God,” Johnson says at the start of his nearly 54-minute video, capturing scenes of people slumped over after using fentanyl, trash-filled streets, and an overwhelming sense of despair. The video, which has garnered over 186,000 views in less than two days, provides a brutally honest look at the decay in Albuquerque’s once-thriving neighborhoods. Johnson describes it as “the most frightful neighborhood in America” and adds, “This is super bad… I don’t think I’ve seen this bad since Austin, Texas, but this feels sketchier and more widespread”—a damning indictment of Albuquerque’s decline, as reported by the Santa Fe New Mexican.

Democrats Defend Their Failure

Instead of acknowledging the depth of the crisis, local Democratic leaders have rushed to defend their record. Mayor Tim Keller’s spokesperson, Shannon Kunkel, dismissed the video’s impact, claiming, “Videos by out-of-state influences that exploit people in crisis for likes offer no real solutions to the complex, national challenges we’re facing with addiction and homelessness.” However, this response sidesteps the fact that the situation has spiraled under the watch of Democratic leadership, despite years of promises to clean up the area.

Keller’s administration claims to have poured resources into the district, but the reality on the ground paints a different picture. Wraparound services, additional housing units, and crime-fighting technology have done little to stem the tide of drugs and violence. As Johnson bluntly puts it, “You can’t save any of the people I witnessed on the streets of Albuquerque that day… But, hopefully every kid growing up in New Mexico watches this video and it scares them into never wanting to live their lives like that.”

Elected Officials in Denial

Senate President Pro Tempore Mimi Stewart, an Albuquerque Democrat whose district includes the International District, downplayed Johnson’s portrayal of the area. “The implication is, ‘Oh, this is a horrible place with murder and mayhem and crime,’ and what you see is people milling about on the street in the middle of the night,” Stewart said, dismissing concerns about public safety. Yet, Stewart herself acknowledged during a Senate hearing that the area has become “the state epicenter for crime, pedestrian fatalities, cartel activity, human trafficking, drugs, crime, tent cities… It’s gotten quite bad.” Her contradictory remarks highlight the disconnect between Democratic rhetoric and the grim reality.

Republican Senator Nicole Tobiassen, however, painted a far grimmer—and more realistic—picture based on her own experiences. “There were drugged-out people walking in the middle of the street… urinating and defecating in the street,” she recounted, describing a visit to the area. “That was a few years ago, and it’s worse now.” Tobiassen’s blunt assessment echoes what Johnson’s video showed—a district in crisis, where residents live in fear and degradation is the norm.

The Ugly Truth: Decay Under Democrat Leadership

Johnson’s video also exposes Albuquerque as “the center for the drug trade” due to its position at the intersection of Interstates 25 and 40. “They come here and cut the drug[s], split it up, bag it up and then distribute it off to the rest of the country,” he explains, illustrating how Albuquerque has become a hub for trafficking and criminal activity.

While Stewart and others tout initiatives like Senate Bill 481, which aims to turn Expo New Mexico, where the State Fair is held, into an apparent housing complex, the truth is that years of Democrat control have only worsened the situation. As Tobiassen aptly stated, “The fact that it’s just allowed to continue is a tragedy.”

Stewart may attempt to highlight positive developments, but even she admitted, “It’s very embarrassing.” And for good reason—Democrats have had years to reverse the decline, yet the International District remains a glaring symbol of failed policies and misguided priorities.

Time for Real Solutions, Not Denial

The harsh truth is that Albuquerque’s International District, once a place of promise, has become a reflection of Democrat mismanagement. The time for excuses and denial is over, Johnson warned,  “This video should be required viewing for high school kids in your state.” Perhaps it’s also time for New Mexico’s leaders to watch and finally confront the disaster their policies have created.

WATCH:

Libs lose their minds after YouTuber calls out ABQ’s ‘Zombie Land’ Read More »

Keller regime allegedly cheated child care providers out of COVID aid: OSI

9 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) released a 24-page report on January 2, highlighting alleged misuse of $287,972.77 in federal COVID-19 Child Care Stabilization Grant funds by 27 employees under Mayor Tim Keller’s administration. These funds were intended for child care providers but were reportedly used to distribute bonuses to city employees, including high-ranking personnel.

The investigation was prompted by an anonymous tip about the alleged improper use of the grant. According to the report, the funds were diverted to compensate employees not directly involved in child care services. This action appears to violate the grant’s stipulations, which explicitly restrict use to personnel associated with licensed child care facilities or services. “The evidence obtained by the OIG substantiates that employees, including high-ranking department personnel, received several premium pay disbursements in violation of allowable personnel costs,” states the report.

Attorney John Day noted the potential for broader consequences, emphasizing, “The real problem for the city is whether the Department of Justice or U.S. government will look at this,” citing similar federal investigations into misused pandemic relief funds. Day added, “If the Department of Justice determines that money was misused, it could be a significant problem.”

The controversy centers on whether the city’s interpretation of “premium pay” under the grant’s guidelines was appropriate. Associate Chief Administrative Officer Carla Martinez defended the payments, stating, “These were employees who kept childcare centers open during the COVID crisis. These were not bonuses and were not inappropriate.” Martinez argued the funds were used for “necessary overtime funding for critical early childhood caregiver programs and management.”

City Council President Dan Lewis, however, referred the investigation to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, alleging federal crimes. “These funds, approved by the Council, were intended exclusively for early childhood programs,” Lewis said. “However, they appear to have been unlawfully redirected as cash bonuses for the Mayor’s staff.”

Mayor Tim Keller’s spokesperson, Alex Bukoski, dismissed Lewis’ accusations as politically motivated, calling them “a grossly inaccurate overreaction” and part of a series of “bitter rants” against Keller’s administration. The OIG report also notes discrepancies in the grant applications, including electronic signatures of employees who were either unaware or no longer employed at the time of submission. These irregularities raise further questions about the oversight and administration of the funds.

Adding to the complexity, the Accountability in Government Oversight Committee—tasked with reviewing the OIG’s findings—declined to approve the report, citing jurisdictional concerns. By a unanimous 5-0 vote, the committee stated the OIG lacked sufficient authority under the Inspector General Ordinance to investigate some allegations.

The OIG’s recommendations include reviewing the disbursements, potentially reallocating misused funds to the city’s General Fund, and repaying the granting authority. Additionally, they suggest implementing clear policies to define “one-time premium pay” and ensuring authorized personnel handle future grant applications. As scrutiny over the issue intensifies, the matter remains unresolved, leaving questions about accountability and adherence to federal guidelines.

Keller regime allegedly cheated child care providers out of COVID aid: OSI Read More »

WATCH: UFC champ Jon ‘Bones’ Jones, an ABQ resident, gives Trump title belt

6 Comments / New Mexico, News / By

Jon “Bones” Jones, who lives in Albuquerque, retained his UFC world heavyweight championship by defeating Stipe Miocic with a technical knockout Saturday night, then paid tribute to President-elect Donald Trump, who was seated ringside. Moments after ending the fight with a spinning back kick to Miocic’s ribs, Jones broke into Trump’s signature dance, thrilling a pro-Trump crowd at Madison Square Garden.

With the crowd roaring its approval, Jones pointed to Trump, who responded with a smile and a thumbs-up gesture. During his post-fight interview with Joe Rogan, Jones expressed his gratitude, saying, “A big, big thank you to President Donald Trump for being here tonight,” igniting even louder cheers. Jones then led the crowd in a spirited “USA! USA!” chant, emphasizing, “I’m proud to be a great American champion. I’m proud to be a Christian American champion.”

Following the interview, Jones approached Trump, who was seated with a group that included Elon Musk, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Tulsi Gabbard, Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump, Kid Rock, Vivek Ramaswamy, and singer Jelly Roll. Jones presented Trump with his UFC title belt, a symbolic gesture that drew enthusiastic applause. Trump responded by inviting Jones to visit the White House when he assumes office as the 47th President of the United States.

While Jones hinted at the possibility of continuing his fighting career, Miocic, now 42, announced his retirement in a conversation with Rogan. Miocic leaves behind a Hall of Fame-worthy career as one of the most accomplished heavyweight fighters in UFC history. Jones, widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters of all time, now boasts a record of 28-1 with one no contest.

Trump’s presence at Madison Square Garden marked a triumphant return following his recent electoral victory over Vice President Kamala Harris. The crowd erupted as he entered the arena with his star-studded entourage, prompting Rogan to remark, “If people at home could hear the sound in this room right now. It is so loud! It’s always loud when he comes in, but now that he’s won [the election], now that he’s the president again, oh my God!”

Throughout the evening, Trump witnessed numerous high-profile bouts, including a co-main event where Charles Oliveira defeated Michael Chandler by unanimous decision. Chandler, a Trump supporter, also exchanged words with the president-elect after his fight, adding to the night’s electric atmosphere.

WATCH: UFC champ Jon ‘Bones’ Jones, an ABQ resident, gives Trump title belt Read More »

Heinrich makes possibly the most unhinged post of the 2024 election cycle

27 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Severely triggered by the news that 45th President Donald Trump is visiting Albuquerque Thursday for a rally, vulnerable far-left Democrat Sen. Martin Heinrich, who faces a tough reelection battle against Republican Nella Domenici, posted possibly the most unhinged theory about the election on X.

Trump’s campaign, which announced the rally on Sunday via a signup link, wrote in a press release, “New Mexico families want to save more of their hard-earned paychecks and make sure their families are safe. Under Kamala Harris’ failed leadership, neither is feasible. Kamala’s Border Blood Bath has wreaked havoc on New Mexico,” concluding, “Kamala Harris broke New Mexico, President Trump will fix it.”

Despite Trump’s bold move to visit New Mexico, which he could win, according to polls showing him in the margin of error against Harris, Heinrich has his own wacky conspiracy theory about the 45th President’s visit to the Land of Enchantment.

“Why is Trump campaigning in NYC and Albuquerque? Because he’s NOT campaigning. He knows he’s losing,” Heinrich wrote.

He then added, “These are Insurrection 2.0 rallies. He’s pumping up his supporters for denial and violence,” erroneously claiming that Trump was losing despite all betting odds, polls in swing states, and political polling averages indicating he is on track to win the presidency, and even possibly winning New Mexico’s five electoral votes.

The 45th President’s rally will be in Albuquerue at noon on Halloween (October 31, 2024), and be his first time back to New Mexico since his 2019 rally, which saw massive crowds.

He also visited New Mexico twice in 2016, with rallies at the Albuquerque Convention Center and an airport hangar near the Albuquerque Sunport, the latter of which was reported to be the location of his Thursday rally.

With deeply unpopular Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and members of the state’s far-left congressional delegation stumping for Harris, that could further assist Trump in carrying New Mexico and its electoral votes as the election is just a single week away. 

Heinrich makes possibly the most unhinged post of the 2024 election cycle Read More »

Amid crime-ravaged streets, ABQ Police Officers’ Association endorses Trump

18 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

The Albuquerque Police Officers’ Association (APOA) has officially endorsed 45th President Donald J. Trump for the presidency in the upcoming 2024 election, citing his commitment to law enforcement and public safety. In a letter from APOA President Shaun Willoughby, the union highlighted Trump’s track record of supporting police officers and prioritizing policies that ensure the safety of communities.

In the endorsement letter, Willoughby emphasized the union’s appreciation for Trump’s consistent support of law enforcement, stating, “President Trump has consistently shown unwavering support for our police officers, advocating for policies that protect and empower those who serve on the front lines.” He further highlighted Trump’s opposition to the defund the police movement, noting that Trump’s stance aligns with the values and mission of the police union.

Willoughby also praised Trump for his work on community policing and enhancing officer training, saying, “Under his leadership, we witnessed efforts to strengthen community policing, improve training, and enhance safety measures.”

The endorsement comes as the APOA, representing law enforcement professionals in New Mexico’s largest city, focuses on supporting candidates who prioritize the safety of officers and the communities they serve. 

The union expressed confidence that Trump’s leadership would continue to provide the necessary resources to ensure public safety across the nation, especially under a wave of violent crime in “progressive”-run cities like Albuquerque.

“We believe that President Trump’s proven track record and strong leadership make him the best candidate to address the challenges facing our nation,” Willoughby said, urging both the union’s members and the public to back Trump in the upcoming election.

This endorsement adds to Trump’s growing list of law enforcement support as he seeks to return to the White House in 2024. Public safety, crime, and support for law enforcement remain major campaign issues across the country, and the APOA’s backing underscores the role these issues are expected to play in the upcoming election.

Amid crime-ravaged streets, ABQ Police Officers’ Association endorses Trump Read More »

Keller drops big hint about his political future

15 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, a far-left Democrat, has made it clear that he’s eyeing another term in office, stating his intention to remain in power to see through various projects. “It’s no secret I am planning on another term, but it’s to see this through,” Keller remarked on Thursday. 

He added, “I always say, like, 2027 is going to be a great year because all these projects I’ve been working on are going to be done, but I got to make sure I’m there to see it, so that’s what I’m thinking right now.”

Keller emphasized ongoing efforts to improve public safety and quality of life in Albuquerque, acknowledging that much remains to be done. However, critics might question whether these efforts have been as effective as Keller suggests, especially given the persistent issues the city faces.

The mayor also highlighted homelessness as a significant concern, pointing to initiatives like the Gateway Center, which currently shelters 900 people daily, as examples of supposed “progress. 

KOAT Political Expert Brian Sanderoff expressed little surprise at Keller’s announcement, noting that it’s common for politicians eyeing another term to stay fully engaged. “Oftentimes when a person decides he’s not going to run again, they start acting a little differently or be less engaged in the like or start thinking about other offices they might be considering,” Sanderoff observed.

Should Keller proceed with his plans, he would join a small group of Albuquerque mayors who have sought a third consecutive term. However, some residents may wonder if his prolonged far-left leadership is what the city truly needs or if fresh ideas and approaches are overdue.

Keller drops big hint about his political future Read More »

‘Keep their a**es in jail!’ MLG slammed over failed crime policy at ABQ town hall

13 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

At a town hall meeting on Monday night at Central New Mexico Community College, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham faced intense scrutiny from residents, including poignant testimony from Sally Sanchez, who lost her son Antonio Jaramillo to violence in 2020. Sanchez shared her heartache directly with the governor, saying, “I, Governor, am the one with a life sentence. I will never get to hear my son’s voice again.”

Sanchez, co-founder of the New Mexico Crusaders for Justice, urged the governor to address concerns about the revolving door of repeat violent offenders. Her advocacy group, which supports families affected by murder, joined several others in pressing for stronger measures to keep repeat offenders behind bars.

Governor Lujan Grisham responded by acknowledging the issue, stating, “Too many cases are not being prosecuted.” She emphasized the need to enhance the justice system to ensure “dangerous people who are convicted of crimes stay in jail until they’re held accountable” while also investing in prevention programs.

This town hall was part of a series aimed at tackling public safety concerns. Lujan Grisham’s earlier town hall in Las Cruces lasted five hours and attracted over 500 attendees. The final town hall is set for Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. in Española at the Northern New Mexico College Event Center.

During Monday’s event, Lujan Grisham was joined by a panel including Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, APS Chief Harold Medina, and Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen — all Democrats. The meeting, which extended nearly four hours, allowed the governor to hear directly from the public about their concerns, ranging from mental health services to criminal justice reform.

Attendees voiced frustration over what they perceived as ineffective responses to crime. One participant, expressing dissatisfaction with the pace of legislative action, said, “I’m tired of people getting like strategies, strategies, strategies. It’s like a football team you’re out there in the huddle you’re all strategizing, yet nobody says ‘Break let’s get out there on the field and actually do the work.’”

The governor also faced interruptions from five young protesters who repeatedly disrupted the meeting to protest U.S. involvement in the Israel-Hamas conflict before being escorted out by police.

William Davis, who survived a shooting in Albuquerque 25 years ago, called for a reconsideration of the Bill Davis Kids, Car and Crime Law, which was overturned by the New Mexico Supreme Court after an ACLU lawsuit.

Lujan Grisham had previously proposed several public safety bills during a special legislative session earlier this month, including measures to address panhandling and reduce criminal offenses among individuals deemed incompetent to stand trial. 

However, the Legislature only passed a funding bill for wildfire relief and mental health programs, leaving her other proposals unaddressed.

The governor has until August 7 to sign the funding bill, which authorizes $100 million for wildfire relief and $3 million for expanding a judicial mental health program.

State Rep. Stefani Lord (R-Sandia Park), who was at the town hall, wrote on social media, “Tensions are high here at the Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham crime town hall. The meeting started with interruptions and booing. People are angry and sick of the crime!”

She added, “It is surreal to hear the Governor discussing bills I have presented, like pretrial detention, to address crime.  Yet, how many years have MLG and the radical Dems REFUSED to pass anything to protect the citizens of New Mexico? And now, all of a sudden, crime is an issue in an election year? Where the hell has MLG been all these years? Why do the radical progressives want criminals loose on the streets to re-offend? Why do they REFUSE to listen to the people? It’s time to stop screwing the people with partisan politics and pass common-sense crime bills!”

As the governor prepares for the final town hall in Española, she continues to grapple with public outrage over the lack of action on crime during her over-six-year tenure. 

‘Keep their a**es in jail!’ MLG slammed over failed crime policy at ABQ town hall Read More »

NM Dem Party official, MLG ally, says ‘too bad’ failed Trump assassin missed

43 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Diane Cox, A Democrat Party of New Mexico official from Albuquerque who sits on the Party’s State Central Committee, posted an article from The Atlantic titled “Trump is planning for a landslide win” on her Facebook post after 45th President Donald Trump narrowly missed a fatal head wound at a rally in Pennsylvania, where an assassin attempted to murder him. The assassin ended up killing at least one rally attendee and leaving others injured, including Trump, who was pierced in his right ear by a bullet. 

One of Cox’s connections, Angela Agosta, wrote, “And now he will be America’s hero who survived an assassination attempt. The way the crowd was chanting usa USA (sic) as he was leaving the stage was so scary.” 

Cox then replied, “[R]ight? Even if he had been killed (too bad they missed) he’d become a Martyr to their fascist cause.” 

Another leftist commenter, Jessica Corley, agreed with Cox’s wish for the 45th President to have died, writing, “I could have lived with that.” 

Hours later, she then shared a post from her friend, Garry Breeswine, who wrote, “I know it’s asking too much, but I’m actually begging yall (sic) to care this much next time it’s a 3rd grade classroom instead of an A—HOLE’s f—ing ear.” 

Cox quipped, “Garry Breeswine said what most of us who aren’t hypocritical  MAGA nutjobs feel.” 

According to Cox’s information on Facebook, she lists herself as working as a “Gun Reform Activist” at Everytown Survivor Network, a rabid anti-gun group, as well as the “campaign consultant” for Steve Brockett, a far-left Alamogordo Democrat who was previously running for New Mexico House District 51 before dropping out and endorsing another far-leftist. 

According to MoneyTrail NM, a project of “New Mexico In Depth,” Cox has been a major donor to the Democrat Party, giving $1,050 to Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham in 2022 and hundreds of dollars to candidates, including Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver, far-left state Sens. Harold Pope and Antoinette Sedillo Lopez, both of Albuquerque, New Mexico Senate candidates Heather Berghmans and Cindy Nava (an illegal immigrant), New Mexico House candidate Ashlie Myers, who Brokett endorsed when dropping out, among scores of donations to the Democrat Party’s ActBlue apparatus. 

Despite calls for the Democrat Party of New Mexico to condemn Cox wishing death upon Trump, the party has yet to denounce her or call for her removal from its State Central Committee.

NM Dem Party official, MLG ally, says ‘too bad’ failed Trump assassin missed Read More »

Keller’s new ‘equity consultant’ says military is ‘home of White supremacy’

27 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Albuquerque is undergoing a significant “culture change” in its government, with critical race theory playing a central role, aided by a far-left equity consultant.

After being elected in 2017, Albuquerque Democrat Mayor Tim Keller vowed to reform the government with “antiracist” principles. “From Day One of our administration, we knew that inequity was growing and that we would have to change the culture,” Keller said. “When has learning and growing ever been comfortable?”

In March 2018, Keller established the Office of Equity and Inclusion (OEI) to realize his vision of racial equity. The OEI introduced trainings on critical race theory, which made some employees uncomfortable, according to the office’s director in a 2021 report.

Among the equity consultants hired was Zamil Salhab from RACED Consulting, who holds far-left views, including the belief that the U.S. military is the “home of White supremacy.” Salhab is described on the RACED Consulting website as a “genderqueer first-generation American and Post 9-11 veteran.”

Salhab shared his experiences in June 2020, stating, “Being first generation and being black, being queer. And then to go into what I believe is the home of White supremacy and patriarchy, the military. Little did I realize like what damage… I was doing to myself and what I’d have to go through in order to deconstruct myself after getting out of the service,” Salhab said. “Because society not only teaches that Black bodies are less than… And so and then to be a woman. So to deal with those different intersectionalities of the White supremacy construct, it was, you know, for a period of time I thought I was nuts, I thought I was crazy.”

The city confirmed that “The Office of Equity and Inclusion contracted with RACED Consulting LLC.”

RACED Consulting specializes in topics such as “white fragility” and “De-Centering Whiteness,” according to its website. The firm aims to explore the impact of white fragility on building racially inclusive practices.

Despite the extensive CRT training for lower-level employees, the 2021 city report noted the absence of department directors and city leadership from these sessions. The report emphasized the need for a comprehensive investment in the Culture Change Initiative at all levels of government.

Michelle Melendez, the director of OEI, acknowledged some resistance to Keller’s racial agenda. “We also see a small but vocal resistance to addressing racism,” she said. “Systemic racism is one of the root causes of some of our most serious challenges, and addressing it within municipal government will make our city better for the long-term. That’s culture change.”

The report also highlighted an increased understanding and openness to discussions about anti-racism and social justice.

As part of the cultural shift, each department received a DEI staffer to conduct “equity assessments.” These liaisons underwent over 10 months of training to prepare for their roles. The report noted the challenges of shifting institutional culture but acknowledged progress made by those who completed the training.

Various departments, including animal welfare, environmental health, transit, and the police department, developed their own “racial equity action plans” to assess their practices, policies, expenditures, and resource distribution.

Before Keller’s election in 2017, employees were “reluctant to talk openly about race, racism,” according to OEI Director Melendez. The Culture Change Initiative has been pivotal in building the city’s capacity to work towards equitable outcomes.

Both RACED Consulting and the City of Albuquerque did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Keller’s new ‘equity consultant’ says military is ‘home of White supremacy’ Read More »

1 2 3 4 5 6 … 10
Scroll to Top