A conservative think tank has lodged a federal civil rights complaint against Cornell University, claiming that the Ivy League institution misuses diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) principles in its hiring practices and scholarship programs.
The America First Policy Institute (AFPI) submitted the complaint to various federal departments late last month. (Interestingly, Larry Kudlow from Fox Business is currently the vice-chairman of the AFPI board.)
The complaint argues that internal documents and archived web pages reveal a “university-wide culture” that prioritizes ideology linked to identity over merit and opportunity, creating a pressured and hostile atmosphere.
Specific issues raised include concerns about Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff, who was Provost during the period in question, and his alleged oversight of a hiring scheme that discriminates against a majority of eligible candidates purely based on race and gender.
The AFPI points to a December 2020 email from a department chair addressing plans to “employ diversity of our hopes.”
Kotlikoff did not provide a direct comment when approached for feedback. However, Lindsey KnowStub, the Director of Media Relations at Cornell, referred to a statement on the university’s website. In this, it was emphasized that the university disputes the AFPI’s claims, highlighting that many referenced websites or programs are outdated and not in use anymore.
“Over the past year, we have bolstered our adherence to civil rights laws by hiring external law firms to conduct audits and adapt to legal changes, taking prompt corrective measures when needed,” it noted.
It also went on to state that Cornell makes numerous employment decisions annually, which could lead to interpretations that might be misconstrued as policy-related misconceptions.
The statement highlighted that allegations of discrimination or bias should be reported and addressed accordingly.
“The university has zero tolerance for illegal discrimination regarding employment or any aspect related to its programs, and we take necessary action regarding allegations of violations against equal opportunity and anti-discrimination policies,” it added.
The AFPI also accused Cornell of limiting scholarships based on race or ethnicity, citing scholarships for particular racial groups like Latinos and African Americans as examples.
Cornell responded that its financial aid and scholarship initiatives comply with relevant laws.
“This is fundamentally about civil rights,” stated Jessica Hart Steinman, an executive adviser at AFPI. “Cornell’s actions contravene federal law and core equality principles. It’s essential for the government to take action.”
Since taking office, President Donald Trump has actively targeted DEI practices, issuing an executive order to end associated duties and programs in the federal government.
Moreover, the Education Department, under Chief Secretary Linda McMahon, issued a memo urging state education officials to abolish DEI programs or face potential loss of federal funding.
Halham Dillon, the Attorney General of the Civil Rights Division of DOJ, mentioned to the Wall Street Journal that her office is committed to investigating serious allegations regarding identity-based admissions, employment, and student interests.
“Discrimination in American universities needs to cease, and Cornell is not exempt from this standard,” Dillon asserted.
