The Justice Department found George Washington University (GWU) violated federal civil rights law by ignoring antisemitic discrimination against Jewish and Israeli students. The Tuesday announcement marks a significant federal intervention in campus antisemitism cases.
Federal investigators determined GWU demonstrated “deliberate indifference” to a hostile educational environment affecting Jewish, American-Israeli, and Israeli students and faculty. The Civil Rights Division’s investigation fell under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
The Justice Department concluded GWU “took no meaningful action” despite receiving complaints about misconduct and documented harm to Jewish and Israeli community members.
“Every student has the right to equal educational opportunities without fear of harassment or abuse,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “No one is above the law, and universities that promulgate antisemitic discrimination will face legal consequences.”
The Justice Department will pursue immediate remediation with the university for the civil rights violations. Title VI prohibits discrimination based on race or national origin at institutions receiving federal funding.
GWU officials have not yet responded to the federal findings.
