The U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has initiated an investigation into George Mason University (GMU) over allegations of Title VI violations under the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The inquiry stems from a complaint by several GMU professors who claim that the university unlawfully incorporates race and other immutable characteristics into its policies, particularly in hiring and promotion practices.
The complaint alleges that GMU leadership has been promoting unlawful Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies since 2020, which allegedly give preferential treatment to faculty from "underrepresented groups" in efforts to advance "anti-racism." These actions are said to create a racially hostile environment, prohibited under Title VI and its implementing regulation at 34 CFR § 100.3(C).
Craig Trainor, Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, stated: “Despite the leadership of George Mason University claiming that it does not discriminate on the basis of race, it appears that its hiring and promotion policies and practices from 2020 to the present...not only allow but champion illegal racial preferencing in violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.” He further added: “The Trump-McMahon Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights will investigate this matter fully to ensure that individuals are judged based on their merit and accomplishment, not the color of their skin.”
The reported discriminatory practices include appointing "Equity Advisors" in every academic department to consider race during recruitment processes; directives from GMU President Gregory Washington regarding promotion mechanisms based on an employee's race; creating templates ensuring anti-racism visions within academic units; forming a Task Force on Anti-Racism and Inclusive Excellence; and prioritizing diversity over credentials once candidates meet certain requirements.
In March 2025, President Washington reportedly renamed the “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” office as the “Office of Access, Compliance, and Community,” asserting GMU's compliance with civil rights laws.
Additionally, OCR recently launched another Title VI investigation into GMU concerning allegations related to a hostile environment for Jewish students and faculty during the previous academic year.
Title VI prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in federally funded education programs. Violations can lead to a loss of federal funding.
