The Department of Justice has initiated a civil rights investigation into the University of California system following allegations of an antisemitic work environment across its 10 campuses. This move comes in response to student protests during the Israel-Hamas War, sparking concerns over discrimination against Jewish professors and staff. President Donald Trump’s administration, along with conservative leaders, is actively scrutinizing university responses to protests targeting U.S. support for Israel. This investigation mirrors the administration’s recent decision to review Columbia University’s federal contracts over similar antisemitism claims.

Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized the DOJ’s commitment to defending Jewish Americans and eradicating institutional antisemitism in universities. In response, the University of California reaffirmed its dedication to combating antisemitism and safeguarding civil rights. The protests, which erupted on various college campuses, including within the University of California system, aimed to raise awareness of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and called for a ceasefire while urging divestment from Israeli firms involved in the conflict.

Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the investigation will assess the impact of these protests on the working environment for campus staff and ascertain if any employment discrimination transpired. Leo Terrel, a key figure in the Federal Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism, stressed the importance of ensuring a workplace free from antisemitic hostility for Jewish faculty and staff at these institutions. The investigation seeks to address these critical issues and uphold civil rights within the university setting.