Arizona — The U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division has opened an investigation into diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices at Arizona State University, citing allegations that students may have been denied equal treatment based on race, color, or national origin.
According to the Justice Department, recent viral videos raised concerns that the university may have engaged in discriminatory practices while attempting to conceal those actions from federal oversight. The investigation will examine whether ASU’s policies and programs comply with federal civil rights laws.
Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon said the investigation is focused on ensuring equal treatment for all students.
“No student should be denied access to opportunities or resources because of race, color, or national origin,” Dhillon said. “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 prohibits colleges and universities that receive federal funding from discriminating on the basis of race, color, or national origin. ASU, one of the nation’s largest universities, receives substantial federal funding and is therefore subject to those requirements.
The Justice Department said investigators will review whether ASU’s DEI-related policies and practices result in unlawful discrimination in areas including admissions, recruitment, scholarships, tutoring programs, and other educational support services.
The department emphasized that the investigation remains in its early stages and that no conclusions have been reached.
“The Civil Rights Division has not reached any conclusions about the subject matter of the investigation,” the Justice Department stated.
The investigation comes amid increased federal scrutiny of DEI programs at colleges and universities across the country, particularly following recent court decisions and policy debates over the role of race-conscious practices in higher education. Federal officials have indicated they will continue reviewing whether educational institutions receiving taxpayer funds are complying with civil rights laws.
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