Treasurer mocks Natives "in fun"

Panel: Treasurer’s Words ‘Inappropriate’

By Dan McKayBernalillo County Treasurer Patrick Padilla says it’s all in fun—mimicking a Native American accent with one employee and allegedly referring to others as “stupida.”

But a three-person panel that reviewed an investigation’s report into harassment allegations against Padilla determined that he made statements “that were inappropriate, as outlined in the county anti-harassment policy,” said Tia Bland, a county spokeswoman.

The panel also recommended that Padilla and Treasurer’s Office employees “receive additional training to cover all relevant policies adopted by Bernalillo County,” Bland said.

Several witnesses said Padilla made inappropriate, unprofessional comments in the workplace, according to the independent investigation.Comment:  For more on the subject, see Racist "Jokes" Are No Jokes and "Lighthearted" and "Humorous" Stereotypes.