Trump Administration Investigates Over 50 Universities for Alleged Racial Discrimination in DEI Programs

The Department of Education warns institutions they risk losing federal funding over race-based practices deemed illegal under civil rights laws.

The U.S. Department of Education has launched investigations into 52 universities for alleged violations of civil rights laws related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
Forty-five universities are being scrutinized for their partnerships with The Ph.D. Project, a nonprofit accused of restricting eligibility based on race.
Seven additional institutions are under investigation for allegedly offering race-based scholarships or running programs that segregate students by race.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon emphasized that students must be evaluated based on merit and accomplishment, not race, aligning with the 2023 Supreme Court ruling against affirmative action in admissions.
Institutions found in violation risk losing federal funding, and legal challenges are expected as universities push back against the administration’s directives.