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Former African American Affairs Office Staffers Speak Out 

September 4, 2026

9.4.26 – Santa Fe New Mexican Lily Alexander interviews two former staffers from the state Office of African American Affairs about their experiences with high turnover and alleged workplace hostility — and their hopes for a turnaround. 

Correspondent: Lily Alexander 

Guests: 
Jacqueline Thomas, Former Staffer, NM Office of African American Affairs 
Asha Ortiz, Former Staffer, NM Office of African American Affairs 

For More Information: 
Ex-Workers of Office of African American Affairs cite high turnover, hostile conditions – Santa Fe New Mexican 

New Mexico in Focus is on hiatus as our team gears up for coverage of the general election; we'll be back with all new journalism in October.