Boston’s Democratic Mayor Michelle Wu recently found herself at the center of a controversy following an invitation to a holiday party that was intended exclusively for councilors of color. The invitation to the ‘Electeds of Color Holiday Party’ set for December 13 was mistakenly sent to all city councilors by Wu’s aide, Denise DosSantos.
DosSantos quickly issued an apology 15 minutes later, explaining that the invitation was only meant for the six councilors of color in the city. This clarification inadvertently excluded the seven white council members. DosSantos, a black woman, expressed regret for any offense or confusion caused by the initial email, but did not apologize for the nature of the event itself.
The incident has led to a split among Boston’s city council members. Some councilors expressed no offense at the exclusive nature of the party, while others raised concerns about Mayor Wu’s judgment. Outgoing City Councilor Frank Baker was among those who criticized the plan, describing it as “unfortunate and divisive” in comments to the Boston Herald.
Elected in November 2021, Wu is Boston’s first female and first Asian American mayor. Michael McCormack, an attorney and former Boston city councilor, noted that such exclusive events are not typical for the mayor’s office. He reflected on the practices of former mayors Tom Menino and Ray Flynn, who would have invited all members of the chamber.
McCormack also commented on the historical context of race in Boston, expressing hope that the incident was an oversight rather than an intentional act.
In defense, Wu’s spokesman Ricardo Patron clarified that the Mayor was requested to host the annual party by the Electeds of Color group. He mentioned that the location and host of the event change each year and that it was one of several parties happening during the festive season. Patron added that Wu was planning a larger holiday party for all cabinet members, city councilors, and the entire legislature the following week.
While Baker did not take personal offense, he questioned the wisdom of having an exclusive party given the current tensions within the city council.
Councilor Brian Worrell, a black member of the council, defended the event, stating that the government of Boston makes space for various specific groups, and this event was no different. He also expressed his support for DosSantos and her handling of the situation.
Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson, in an email response to DosSantos and Wu’s team, argued that the invitation should not be a source of offense. She likened the gathering of elected officials of color to other groups meeting based on shared interests or cultural backgrounds, emphasizing that it was about creating supportive spaces rather than exclusion.