The Trump administration has launched a Department of Justice probe into the University of California (UC) system, scrutinizing its hiring practices amid complaints that faculty diversity goals may conflict with federal anti-discrimination laws.
In a notice sent to UC officials, the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division cited concerns that the university’s efforts to increase diversity among new hires “openly measure new hires by their race and sex.” The notice states there is “reason to believe” such practices could be unlawful, though no definitive conclusions have been reached.
The UC system, which spans 10 campuses and serves nearly 300,000 students, defended its policies: a spokesperson confirmed the university’s commitment to comply with both federal and state anti-discrimination laws and emphasized its goal to maintain an inclusive campus climate.
This investigation follows earlier actions by the Trump administration targeting several universities. In recent months, federal funding has been frozen for certain institutions, including Harvard and Columbia, and investigations launched into allegations of antisemitism and violations of diversity, equity, and inclusion policies.
While the UC investigation focuses on Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, observers note it fits within a broader effort to challenge DEI programs perceived as conflicting with a merit-based framework.
With input from Al Jazeera
