The U.S. Department of Education has reached an agreement with the University of California system to address complaints of discrimination and harassment against Jewish and Muslim students during protests related to the war in Gaza. The department investigated nine complaints against various UC schools, finding that they had not responded promptly or effectively to allegations of discrimination and harassment. As part of the agreement, the schools will increase reporting of complaints to the Office for Civil Rights, review past complaints, and provide training to employees and campus police officers on federal law obligations.
The University of California system stated that the agreement is part of its ongoing efforts to ensure that its campuses are respectful and welcoming to all students. Following the onset of the Israel-Hamas war, tensions and violence erupted on campuses nationwide, with allegations of antisemitism and anti-Arab harassment. The Department of Education has been investigating multiple complaints of Title VI violations, which prohibit discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, and national origin at federally funded colleges and universities.
In addition to the agreement with the University of California system, the department reached a similar agreement with Brown University in July. A separate investigation found that the University of Cincinnati did not adequately respond to reports of harassment, including death threats and vandalism of a Jewish student’s home. UCLA faced criticism for its handling of protests, with reports of violence against students of Jewish ancestry and attacks on pro-Palestinian protesters by counter-protesters. Muslim and Palestinian students at UCLA also experienced unwanted filming and doxing.
The investigation into UCLA focused on compliance with reports related to rallies and a pro-Palestinian encampment in the spring of 2023. There were reports of violence against Jewish students and exclusion of Jewish students from certain areas of the campus during protests. Other UC campuses also experienced incidents of harassment, including antisemitic vandalism and comments targeting Jewish students. The civil rights office noted that UC Santa Barbara, UC San Diego, and UC Davis had reported incidents of antisemitic behavior by students and professors.
Overall, the Department of Education’s agreement with the University of California system underscores the importance of addressing discrimination and harassment on college campuses. By requiring schools to take proactive measures to prevent such behavior, the agreement aims to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all students. As colleges and universities navigate complex social and political issues, it is crucial that they prioritize the safety and well-being of all members of their campus communities.
