US targets more schools over admissions, diversity and campus protests
A federal probe finds Black or Hispanic applicants were more likely to gain admission than white or Asian applicants with similar credentials.
President Donald Trump's administration has targeted additional universities over concerns related to race, diversity in admissions, and campus protests, marking the federal government's latest actions against American institutions. The Department of Justice (DOJ) accused Duke University School of Law of biased admissions practices favoring Black and Hispanic applicants, citing a federal investigation.
The DOJ requested a voluntary agreement, with the university promising compliance consistent with its academic mission. Similar allegations were made against the University of California and Yale medical schools' admissions practices, which the institutions claimed were based on merit.
Trump has previously signed orders to dismantle diversity goals, which rights advocates argue address historical inequities for marginalized groups. The Supreme Court ruled against affirmative action in college admissions in 2023, striking down race-conscious programs at Harvard and the University of North Carolina.
Additionally, the Department of Education is investigating San Jose State University and San Francisco State University over pro-Palestinian protests. The agencies received complaints about alleged failures to address antisemitism, including hostile behavior towards Jewish students, antisemitic graffiti, and disruptions of classes due to protests.
Both universities have condemned discrimination, including antisemitism and Islamophobia, stating they treat such concerns seriously and will cooperate with the investigation. San Jose State University refuted a quote attributed to a former administrator, claiming it was never made by any university representative.
The administration accuses pro-Palestinian protesters of being antisemitic and supporting extremism, while protesters, including some Jewish groups, argue the government mislabels criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza and its occupation of Palestinian territories as antisemitism and advocates for Palestinian rights as expressions of extremism.
Trump's administration has targeted universities over various issues, leading to concerns about free speech, due process, and academic freedom. On Monday, Education Secretary Linda McMahon called for universities to commit to reforms by the end of 2026, but the National Education Association, the largest US teachers' union, opposed the call.
Written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
