Federal officials have launched investigations into California State University (CSU) over allegations of antisemitism and claims of racial discrimination connected to its diversity hiring efforts. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has opened a probe into reports of antisemitism and is contacting CSU employees to gather information, according to Chancellor Mildred García.
In addition, the U.S. Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights is looking into CSU’s involvement with The PhD Project, a nonprofit group that helps increase diversity in business education. This review comes after accusations of racial bias related to the university’s past hiring practices.
The inquiries first came to light through reporting by the Los Angeles Times. Officials have subpoenaed Cal State LA, one of CSU’s 22 campuses, requesting personal contact details of employees. This campus has been in the spotlight recently for hosting a Gaza Solidarity Encampment amid protests related to the conflict in Gaza.
CSU confirmed the complaint against Cal State LA involves charges of antisemitism and stated that the campus is cooperating fully with the EEOC’s ongoing investigation. This subpoena for employee contact information is the only one CSU has received so far in this matter.
The Justice Department and EEOC are also investigating similar issues at the University of California system. Chancellor García emphasized that CSU follows state and federal laws and does not give any special treatment based on race or religion. She reaffirmed the university’s commitment to working with federal agencies during these reviews.
CSU had posted job openings through The PhD Project until earlier this year but has not shared why the partnership ended. The situation highlights growing scrutiny over diversity programs and how they impact hiring practices at public universities in California.