The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has launched a directed investigation into Haverford College following allegations that the institution failed to comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The inquiry was prompted by reports indicating that Haverford did not adequately address incidents of discrimination and harassment targeting Jewish and Israeli students.
“Like many other institutions of higher education, Haverford College is alleged to have ignored anti-Semitic harassment on its campus, contravening federal civil rights law and its own anti-discrimination policies. Jewish students – like all students – deserve to learn and thrive in an environment free from wanton hostility and intentional intimidation,” said Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor. “The Trump Administration will not allow Jewish life to be pushed into the shadows because college leaders are too craven to respond appropriately to unlawful anti-Semitic incidents on campus. The Office for Civil Rights will investigate this matter thoroughly and ensure all students are treated equally under law.”
Reports indicate that after October 7, Jewish students at Haverford were subjected to bullying and harassment with little or no response from the administration. Leadership allegedly advised affected students to be “brave” rather than expect safety, and attributed vandalism of posters related to Jewish events or hostage awareness to external factors such as “the wind.” It was only when questioned during a Congressional hearing that campus leaders acknowledged these as antisemitic acts.
During testimony before Congress, President Raymond stated there is “no room for discrimination” at Haverford but did not provide specific examples of actions taken in response to reported incidents.
On January 29, 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order called Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism, which affirmed the United States’ commitment to addressing anti-Semitism using all appropriate legal means.
Title VI prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in educational programs receiving federal funding.
