The Department of Education has initiated a civil rights investigation into Duke University, focusing on allegations that the university and its law journal violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by discriminating against students based on race. This move aligns with the Trump administration’s broader efforts to challenge diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in higher education institutions.
Alongside the investigation, the departments of Education and Health and Human Services sent a joint letter to Duke expressing concerns about the university’s use of race in hiring, admissions, scholarships, and other areas. The letter accuses Duke’s School of Medicine of engaging in racial preferences and discriminatory practices across recruitment, financial aid, promotions, and more. The departments demanded that Duke review and reform policies involving race preferences within six months and warned that federal funding could be jeopardized if the university fails to comply. The investigation highlights ongoing tensions as the Trump administration targets DEI programs and policies across multiple universities nationwide.