Justice Department opens investigation into ASU over DEI claims

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) opened a civil rights investigation into Arizona State University (ASU) on June 3, citing viral videos that allegedly show students treated differently based on race. The probe targets ASU’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies in admissions, recruitment, scholarships, tutoring, and educational support, invoking Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits racial discrimination in federally funded programs. Federal officials stated they had not reviewed the videos but accused ASU of failing to cooperate with oversight. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon emphasized the DOJ’s commitment to preventing unlawful discrimination, particularly when institutions attempt to conceal violations. ASU spokesperson Jerry Gonzalez denied wrongdoing, asserting compliance with federal laws and Arizona’s state constitutional ban on racial discrimination in public education since 2010. The investigation stems from undercover videos published by Accuracy in Media, a conservative outlet, featuring ASU faculty and staff discussing DEI policies. One video, shared widely on X by former Arizona gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake, criticized ASU’s leadership and called for funding cuts. The DOJ’s action follows two prior investigations by the U.S. Department of Education in March 2025—one examining ties to a diversity initiative and another addressing antisemitism allegations on campus. ASU has refused to comment on the viral recordings, citing unauthorized filming of employees. The university maintains it operates within legal boundaries and has no plans to alter its policies. The DOJ’s probe marks an escalation in scrutiny over DEI programs at public universities, with broader implications for federal funding and institutional accountability.