The U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division announced on June 3, 2026, that it has initiated an investigation into diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices at Arizona State University (ASU). This action follows the identification of viral videos suggesting that the university may have denied equal treatment to students based on race, color, or national origin.
According to a statement from the DOJ, officials allege that ASU attempted to conceal its practices from federal oversight, which prompted the investigation. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon stated, "No student should be denied access to opportunities or resources because of race, color, or national origin," emphasizing the commitment to preventing unlawful discrimination in universities.
Federal law mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal funding must provide equal access to students regardless of race, color, or national origin. ASU, being one of the largest universities in the U.S. and a significant recipient of federal funds, is under scrutiny regarding its DEI policies in areas such as admissions, recruitment, scholarships, tutoring, and educational support.
An ASU spokesperson stated that the university complies fully with federal law and does not discriminate in admissions, citing a state constitutional provision that prohibits preferential treatment or discrimination based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin in public education. The spokesperson also noted that ASU would not comment on the viral videos mentioned in the DOJ's press release, as they involve unauthorized recordings of university employees. DOJ officials have indicated that no conclusions have been reached regarding the investigation at this time.
