Federal officials have initiated an antisemitism probe at the University of California, contacting faculty members after the school complied with a subpoena from the Trump administration. The probe seeks personal information of around 900 faculty members, raising concerns among faculty about potential division tactics.
As the investigation unfolds, faculty members are questioning the government’s motives amid ongoing funding cuts to top universities. The University of California provided requested information for faculty who signed open letters following the Hamas attack on Israel, leading to scrutiny from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Government Inquiries and Faculty Responses
Victor Chen from the EEOC declined to comment on the investigation, while UC emphasized its commitment to privacy and legal compliance. Faculty members have been contacted by federal officials like Sara Safriet from the Department of Justice, seeking individual experiences as potential witnesses.
Although federal funding has not been revoked from UC yet, several universities are under federal investigation for alleged antisemitic discrimination. Amidst this backdrop, faculty members express confusion and resistance to what they perceive as coercive tactics.
Faculty Associations’ Stand Against Investigations
The Council of UC Faculty Associations urged faculty to resist government pressures and refrain from participating in investigations. Constance Penley, the council president, believes the administration’s subpoena aims to undermine university autonomy and create internal discord.
UC-AFT, a union representing non-tenured faculty and librarians, protested against the university’s compliance with the subpoena and emphasized the importance of academic freedom and privacy protection.
Protecting Academic Freedom
Faculty members targeted by the EEOC received reassurances from UC’s legal officer that their information would be safeguarded. The university’s stance on faculty privacy and non-compulsory cooperation with the EEOC investigation reflects a commitment to upholding academic values.
As the situation unfolds, faculty members continue to advocate for academic freedom and resist external pressures that threaten the university’s principles.
