UMVA has learned that a federal investigation has been launched into the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices at a prominent US university, following allegations that the institution denied equal treatment to students based on their race, color, or national origin.
The investigation was triggered by recent viral videos that reportedly showed the university's discriminatory practices, which were allegedly carried out while trying to hide them from federal scrutiny. The US Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division has taken the lead on the probe.
"No student should be denied access to opportunities or resources because of their race, color, or national origin," said a senior Justice Department official. "The United States is committed to keeping universities free of unlawful discrimination — especially when they try to hide illegal conduct to avoid oversight and compliance."
Under federal law, colleges and universities that receive federal funding are required to provide equal access to students regardless of their race, color, or national origin. The university in question is one of the nation's largest and receives significant federal funding.
The investigation will examine whether the university's DEI policies in areas such as admissions, recruitment, scholarships, and educational support are discriminatory. The probe will aim to determine if the university has subjected its students to illegal discrimination.
A spokesperson for the university has responded, stating that the institution "complies fully with federal law and does not discriminate in admissions." The spokesperson also highlighted that the university has operated under a state constitutional provision since 2010 that prohibits preferential treatment or discrimination.
The university has declined to comment on the specific viral videos cited in the investigation, citing a policy of not commenting on secret video recordings of employees who are not authorized to speak on behalf of the university.
The Justice Department's Civil Rights Division has emphasized that it has not yet reached any conclusions about the investigation, which is ongoing.
