University of North Carolina settles federal probes by Trump administration

President Donald Trump's administration has settled 18 federal probes into alleged race discrimination and antisemitism at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The settlement will remain in effect until the end of 2028 and does not necessitate a monetary payment. UNC did not admit to any wrongdoing or liability, and the agreement maintains its eligibility for federal funding.

The university appointed Elizabeth Hall, associate vice-chancellor for university compliance, to serve as an internal administrator and coordinator in its compliance office to address discrimination. UNC will provide mandatory antisemitism training for students, faculty, and staff, and require students groups to face discipline for antisemitic discriminatory conduct.

The agreement prohibits face masks or coverings that conceal an individual's identity during protests. Trump has claimed that pro-Palestinian protesters are antisemitic and support extremism, while protesters argue that opposing Israel's actions in Gaza is not antisemitic. The settlement obliges UNC to adopt non-discriminatory admissions policies and not use racial proxies, but it does not impede UNC from considering personal adversity, family background, or similar factors if applied consistently.

The Justice Department will receive any complaints of antisemitism and race discrimination from UNC on a quarterly basis. The Supreme Court struck down race-conscious admissions programs at Harvard and UNC in 2023. Trump has targeted universities over pro-Palestinian protests, diversity initiatives, transgender policies, and climate programs, raising concerns over free speech, due process, and academic freedom.