The Department of Justice is looking into possible discriminatory employment practices at George Mason University (GMU). Specifically, the focus is on whether or not GMU has violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination in the workplace based on race, color, religion, gender, or national origin.
Attorney General Hermeet Dillon stated, “It is illegal and unAmerican to deny equal access to employment opportunities based on race and gender.” She emphasized that when qualified candidates are excluded from job opportunities, it undermines public trust and constitutes a legal violation that will be investigated by the DOJ.
Dillon mentioned in her correspondence with GMU’s Board of Visitors and President Charles “Curriedly” Stimson that the DOJ has reason to believe that discrimination may have influenced hiring decisions under the leadership of President Gregory Washington. It was noted that Washington had communicated plans in a July 23, 2020, email to faculty about implementing a renewal and tenure process that would supposedly favor women and faculty of color. He also suggested creating mechanisms that would acknowledge the emotional labor that people of color contribute in their roles on campus.
As of now, the investigation is ongoing, and no conclusions have been drawn. Dillon wrote that they are assessing whether GMU has a systematic approach to the alleged discriminatory practices.
This investigation comes after University of Virginia President James Ryan recently resigned amidst pressure from the Trump administration over similar DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives. In a statement, Ryan explained that while he stands firm on his beliefs, he felt unable to continue fighting against the federal government for his job.
The Trump administration has made it a priority to challenge DEI policies, particularly in educational institutions. In February 2025, the Department of Education introduced the “End DEI” portal, which invites input from parents, students, and teachers about perceived issues with DEI practices.
Executive orders issued by former President Donald Trump aimed at eliminating what he viewed as radical DEI initiatives, emphasizing a restoration of merit-based opportunities and a cessation of illegal discrimination.
No comments were received in time for publication from Mike Fragoso of Torridon Law PLLC, the firm handling inquiries for George Mason University.
