In its own words: DOJ's announcement of a civil rights probe into ASU

In a June 3, 2026, press release, the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division announced a Title VI investigation into whether ASU's diversity, equity and inclusion programs discriminate against students based on race, color or national origin. The department said "recent viral videos" allegedly showed ASU denying equal treatment and hiding its practices from federal scrutiny. The probe covers admissions, recruitment, scholarships, tutoring and other educational support.

"No student should be denied access to opportunities or resources because of race, color, or national origin," said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon. The release also says: "The Civil Rights Division has not reached any conclusions about the subject matter of the investigation."