UCLA Faces Federal Lawsuit Over Alleged Antisemitism During Protests
Federal Lawsuit Filed Against UCLA
The Trump administration has initiated a second federal lawsuit against the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), claiming the institution failed to safeguard Jewish and Israeli students from harassment amid pro-Palestinian protests that erupted across U.S. campuses in 2024. Filed on Tuesday, the lawsuit accuses UCLA of not taking any substantial measures to curb antisemitic behavior linked to demonstrations that followed the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, and the ensuing conflict in Gaza. Federal authorities assert that the university fostered an environment where Jewish students experienced discrimination and exclusion as campus protests intensified.
This latest legal action follows a previous lawsuit filed just four months earlier, which alleged antisemitic discrimination against Jewish staff members at UCLA. Both lawsuits arise from the same period of campus unrest and are part of a broader federal initiative targeting universities accused of neglecting antisemitism.
First Assistant US Attorney Bill Essayli emphasized the responsibility of universities to ensure safe and inclusive environments for all students, stating that institutions that repeatedly fail to protect Jewish students will face accountability under federal civil rights laws.
Allegations of Discrimination Under Title VI
The lawsuit seeks a declaration that UCLA has violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 since October 7, 2023. Title VI prohibits discrimination based on race, ethnicity, or national origin by federally funded institutions. The complaint argues that UCLA did not adequately respond to incidents involving Jewish and Israeli students during the protests and encampments that arose during the Israel-Gaza conflict. Federal attorneys contend that these shortcomings constitute unlawful discrimination under civil rights legislation. This case follows prior pressure from federal officials, including demands for UCLA to make significant changes to address concerns related to campus antisemitism to maintain access to research funding.
UCLA Responds to Allegations
University officials have vehemently denied the administration's allegations, asserting that UCLA has actively worked to combat antisemitism and enhance campus safety. Chancellor Julio Frenk refuted claims that the university has overlooked concerns raised by Jewish students and staff, stating, "Let me be direct: the suggestion that UCLA has been passive in the face of antisemitism is simply wrong."
UCLA claims to have implemented various reforms over the past year, including appointing an associate vice chancellor for campus and community safety, restructuring the Civil Rights Office, creating a dedicated Title VI officer position, and revising campus policies regarding discrimination complaints. Earlier this month, the university also announced additional initiatives specifically aimed at combating antisemitism and bolstering protections for Jewish students.