Key facts
- DOJ's Civil Rights Division launched a Title VI investigation into ASU's DEI practices.
- The investigation follows viral videos showing potential race-based student distinctions.
- ASU receives hundreds of millions of dollars in federal grants and aid annually.
- The probe will examine if DEI policies lead to illegal discrimination in admissions, recruitment, scholarships, and support services.
- Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 mandates equal opportunity without regard to protected characteristics.
The Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division has initiated a Title VI investigation into diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices at Arizona State University (ASU). This action was prompted by recent viral videos that appear to show university personnel distinguishing students based on race, color, or national origin, raising concerns about potential violations of civil rights protections. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon stated that no student should be denied opportunities due to race and that the U.S. is committed to preventing unlawful discrimination, especially when illegal conduct is concealed. Federal law prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin at institutions receiving federal funding. ASU, with approximately 194,000 students, receives hundreds of millions of dollars in federal grants and aid annually. The investigation will scrutinize whether ASU's DEI-related policies result in illegal discrimination across admissions, recruitment, scholarships, tutoring, and educational support services. This inquiry is part of a broader national effort to review university practices following changes in federal policy and public concerns over race-conscious programs. Universities have been adjusting DEI initiatives due to potential funding cuts and investigations, with some repackaging programs under different names like 'inclusive excellence' to comply with regulations and avoid scrutiny. The DOJ's investigation aims to determine compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which mandates equal opportunity.