US Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights Releases List of Active Title VI Investigations on Educational Institutions

The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has released a list of higher education and K-12 institutions that are under investigation for possible violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This list includes schools that are allegedly discriminating against individuals based on shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics. The OCR will update this list weekly on their website.

“Hate has no place in our schools, period,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. He emphasized the importance of creating safe and inclusive educational environments for students of all ethnicities and shared ancestries.

Catherine E. Lhamon, Assistant Secretary of Education for Civil Rights, stated that the Department of Education recognizes the fear experienced by students and school communities due to the proliferation of hate in schools. The OCR is increasing transparency into their investigations to raise public awareness.

The release of this list aligns with President Biden’s commitment to protecting students and fostering inclusive learning environments. The Biden-Harris Administration aims to eliminate discrimination in schools and college campuses.

Last week, the Education Department issued a reminder to schools about their legal obligations under Title VI to provide a discrimination-free environment. The letter also clarifies the law’s requirements regarding discrimination based on shared ancestry.

Schools found in violation of the law and unwilling to address these issues may face consequences such as losing federal funding or being referred to the U.S. Department of Justice for further action.

The list below shows institutions currently under investigation for possible discrimination based on shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics in Fiscal Year 2024 as of November 16, 2023. Of the complaints received, five allege antisemitic harassment and two allege anti-Muslim harassment. For a complete list of open investigations, please visit the OCR website.

List of Open Title VI Shared Ancestry Investigations, Fiscal Year 2024 (beginning 10/1/2023)

Institution

Location

Date Investigation Opened

Maize Unified School District

Maize, Kansas

November 16, 2023

Lafayette College

Easton, PA

November 16, 2023

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY

November 16, 2023

Columbia University

New York, NY

November 16, 2023

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA

November 16, 2023

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA

November 15, 2023

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

New York, NY

November 15, 2023

The protection provided by Title VI extends to students who face discrimination based on shared ancestry, ethnic characteristics, or religious identity. Schools that receive federal funds are required to address discrimination, including slurs, stereotypes, and bias against students’ ethnic and religious backgrounds.

The OCR is responsible for enforcing federal civil rights laws and conducts investigations by analyzing evidence, conducting interviews, and making site visits if necessary.

For a complete list of all open investigations, visit the OCR website.