JFM Shocked to Learn that Dr. Medlock’s Dismissal Letter was Signed by her Peer

Two weeks ago, JFM revealed budgetary concerns at the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS). This news reverberated across Justice For Medlock’s (JFM) network that has grown to include an international readership. It has now come to light through a source that Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) Interim Commissioner Barnes, serving in her role as Director of CDHS, signed the dismissal letter for Medlock, which held neither the Governor’s nor his Chief of Staff’s signatures.

This suggests that Interim Commissioner Barnes, who was allegedly dealing with budgetary management and performance issues, was allowed to dismiss another Cabinet member without cause. Is it possible Dr. Medlock is the first cabinet member to be dismissed by a peer with alleged performance issues who also replaced her? If not, where is the accountability for a pattern of exerting and retaining cabinet control through peer dismissals?

JFM has serious concerns after learning about Barnes as the dismissal letter signatory, as well as, about how this action reflects on the Polis Administration’s complicity. JFM’s concerns are tied to issues with conflict of interest, racism and discrimination, retaliation or retribution, due process, and legal implications. 

Conflict of Interest
Dr. Medlock’s peer, another cabinet member, signed her dismissal letter and replaced her as Commissioner, raising questions about impartiality and fairness. A peer signing the dismissal letter of another high-level official, especially one they will directly benefit from by assuming the role, could be perceived as a conflict of interest.

Racism and Discrimination
The situation could raise concerns about racism or discrimination, especially given the racial identities of the individuals involved. If there are indications that race played a factor in the decision to remove Dr. Medlock, it would be highly inappropriate and potentially illegal. It's essential to investigate whether there were any discriminatory motives behind the termination.

Retaliation or Retribution
If Dr. Medlock's removal came as a result of her being successful in her role and receiving a stellar performance review, and the decision to dismiss was championed by a peer who replaced her, it could raise suspicions of retaliation or retribution. Retaliatory actions based on an individual's success or positive reviews are concerning.

Due Process and Fairness 
If the dismissal was unexpected and without proper due process or a valid reason based on job performance, it may be considered inappropriate. Proper procedures should be followed in any separation to ensure fairness and protect the rights of the individual being removed.

Legal Implications 
Depending on the specifics of the situation, this scenario could potentially raise legal concerns, including wrongful termination or discrimination claims.

The BHA is housed within CDHS however it was messaged and widely understood the BHA was a separate entity with cabinet-level leadership. This suggests that if Barnes signing the dismissal letter is considered appropriate use of authority, then the people of Colorado are being gaslit about the oversight and creation of the BHA.

Dr. Medlock was appointed with authority as the single entity responsible for driving coordination and collaboration across state agencies to address behavioral health needs. Because the role of the two agencies was shared publicly and widely as the BHA launched, in analyzing Dr. Medlock's dismissal it becomes evident that Barnes exerting authority as the signatory for Medlock’s dismissal letter is a potential exploitation of a technicality. 

It is a well-known practice for those in positions of power to exploit technicalities or loopholes to bend authority to their advantage. Such actions can serve as a means to achieve their desired outcomes while circumventing established checks and balances. These tactics can be particularly concerning when wielded against marginalized communities, including Black-identifying leaders, who historically have faced systemic inequalities and barriers to access positions of power.

Research on power dynamics and human behavior also provides valuable insights into how individuals in positions of authority may be more likely to engage in unethical behavior when they perceive a lack of accountability or when they believe they can escape scrutiny through technicalities. By leveraging technicalities or loopholes, individuals in power may manipulate decision-making processes, influence personnel changes, or bypass established protocols to protect their interests or consolidate control.

This behavior undermines the principles of fairness, justice, and transparency, which are essential for a functioning and equitable society. Furthermore, it perpetuates a culture of impunity, wherein those in power may evade accountability for their actions. In the case of Dr. Medlock's dismissal, the use of a technicality by Interim Commissioner Barnes to sign the dismissal letter raises valid concerns about impartiality and potential conflicts of interest. Without proper oversight, such actions can lead to the erosion of public trust in institutions, including government bodies responsible for serving the interests of the people.

To combat abuse of authority, it is crucial to demand greater accountability and transparency from those in power. Establishing robust mechanisms to prevent and address such exploitations is essential to safeguard the rights and well-being of all individuals, particularly those from historically-excluded communities who may be disproportionately affected. By holding those in power accountable and promoting ethical leadership, we can work towards a more just and equitable society where technicalities are not weaponized to perpetuate injustice.

Sign the Petition to Reinstate Dr. Medlock

On Monday, April 17, 2023, Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) Commissioner, Morgan Medlock, MD, MDiv, MPH, a Black community leader, was unjustly removed from her Colorado cabinet position without cause. Her removal risks the lives of millions of people in Colorado who deserve accessible, trauma-informed, and culturally-responsive behavioral health care. It also perpetuates the message that strong, qualified Women of Color are vulnerable to the whims of political systems and cabinet leadership.

Demand justice for Dr. Medlock by signing the petition for Governor Polis to bring her back as the Commissioner of the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA).