The Education Department initiated a civil rights investigation on Thursday focused on George Mason University, stemming from claims of discrimination tied to its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts.
The federal agency indicated that some professors are prioritizing minority groups that have historically faced underrepresentation when it comes to hiring and promotions among faculty.
“Although George Mason University’s leadership asserts it does not discriminate based on race, there are indications that from 2020 onward, their employment and promotion policies have been driven by what is referred to as ‘diversity, equity, and inclusion.’ During the Biden administration, ‘anti-racism’ gained traction, which, it seems, is now being scrutinized,” noted a trainer for Craig, a civil rights official in the education field.
“The Civil Rights Bureau under the Trump MCMAHON Education Bureau will conduct a comprehensive investigation into this matter, ensuring that decisions regarding individuals are based on their qualifications and achievements rather than their race.”
Oka reached out to the university for a response.
Among the actions reported to the Education sector from George Mason are the hiring of equity advisors within the academic community and the establishment of a task force targeted at anti-racism and promoting inclusive excellence.
This marks the second Title VI investigation involving George Mason; the first was announced last week and will examine claims that the institution did not adequately protect Jewish students from hostile environments.
George Mason is now one of many universities under scrutiny by the Trump administration due to its DEI practices and concerns regarding anti-Semitism.
