Dayton Announces State Government Diversity Audit

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Gov. Mark Dayton announced an independent audit to examine diversity in the state government and identify ways to improve and create more opportunities for people of color in Minnesota.

State and Local chapters of the NAACP pushed for the review. Leaders of the NAACP say this is the first audit of its kind in the country.

The governor has also created a working group that will oversee the audit. The group is made up of 27 organizations, including the NAACP, the Minnesota Indian Affairs Council and the Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce.

Dayton says the equity audit and working group are part of his continuing efforts the make sure the state's workforce reflects the diversity of Minnesotans.

At a press conference Thursday, members of the NAACP thanked the governor for addressing what they call a serious problem. They say economic disparities in the state have reached a "crisis point" and demand the urgent attention of Minnesota's leaders.

"Minnesota has been seen as one of the worst places for African Americans in the country. That is simply unacceptable and intolerable," said Nekima Levy-Pounds, the head of the Minneapolis NAACP. "It's time for us to take action as a state, and I'm thankful Gov. Dayton has accepted responsibility, but he can't do this alone."

The company that will perform the audit has yet to be announced, as the state is still finalizing details, but the results will be made public.

The review itself could take up to four months and is expected to be finished before the next legislative session.