Justice Department Launches Title VI Investigation into DEI Programs at Arizona State University

The Justice Department's Civil Rights Division announced today that it launched an investigation into diversity, equity, and inclusion practices at Arizona State University (ASU). Recent viral videos indicating ASU denied equal treatment to students based on race, color, or national origin - while attempting to hide its discriminatory practices from federal scrutiny - prompted the investigation.

"No student should be denied access to opportunities or resources because of race, color, or national origin," said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division. "The United States is committed to keeping universities free of unlawful discrimination - especially when they try to hide illegal conduct to avoid oversight and compliance."

Federal law requires colleges and universities that receive federal funding to open their doors to students on an equal basis, regardless of race, color, or national origin. ASU is one of the nation's largest universities and is a major recipient of federal funds. The Division's investigation will examine whether ASU subjects its students to illegal discrimination through its DEI policies in admissions, recruitment, scholarships, tutoring, and the provision of educational support.

The Civil Rights Division has not reached any conclusions about the subject matter of the investigation.