The president of George Mason University, Gregory Washington, is under scrutiny following the opening of two investigations by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR). The first investigation, initiated on July 1, 2023, centers on allegations of antisemitism on campus, based on complaints that Jewish students and faculty faced hostility during the previous academic year. Washington expressed confusion regarding the OCR’s actions, stating that George Mason had maintained a relatively peaceful atmosphere compared to other universities.
The situation escalated quickly, with conservative media outlets reporting on the investigation almost immediately after its announcement. A piece published by The Washington Free Beacon incorporated the OCR’s letter, while another article in the City Journal criticized Washington’s leadership, calling for his resignation. The criticism focused on his support for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, which some conservatives believe contribute to systemic discrimination.
Washington’s situation parallels that of James E. Ryan, the former president of the University of Virginia, who resigned following similar pressures. The OCR’s investigation into George Mason commenced just days after Ryan’s resignation, leading to speculation about coordinated efforts to remove Washington from his position.
In a press release on July 6, 2023, the Department of Education announced a second investigation concerning claims that the university engages in racially discriminatory hiring practices. Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor stated that the university’s DEI policies may allow for illegal racial preferential treatment, violating Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Washington denied these accusations, asserting the university’s compliance with all federal and state regulations.
Responses from faculty at George Mason have been supportive of Washington, with numerous Jewish faculty members signing a statement condemning the investigations as an attack on the university community. They argue that the complaints stem from a politically motivated campaign against Washington, similar to what Ryan faced at the University of Virginia.
The timing and nature of the investigations have raised concerns among faculty about the fairness of the OCR’s process. Washington remarked that the rapid emergence of these investigations seems orchestrated, suggesting connections between right-wing media and political figures, including Virginia’s Republican governor, Glenn Youngkin. The campus chapter of the American Association of University Professors voiced similar concerns, claiming that coordinated attacks aim to replace Washington with someone aligned with the governor’s political agenda.
On July 5, 2023, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine, both Democrats from Virginia, criticized the investigations in an opinion piece. They argued that the allegations against Washington echo those used against Ryan and are primarily aimed at punishing institutions that do not align with specific ideological goals.
The OCR’s investigation into George Mason involves a formal complaint filed in June, demanding that the university submit extensive documentation regarding its handling of antisemitism complaints by July 21, 2023. Despite assurances from the OCR of an unbiased evaluation, Warner and Kaine expressed skepticism about the investigation’s integrity, fearing it might serve as a tool for political retribution.
Washington has defended his presidency, noting that George Mason is the most racially diverse public research university in Virginia, with a commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all students. He emphasized that the university has taken steps to address antisemitism and promote safety on campus, including issuing multiple statements condemning violence and discrimination.
In light of these developments, Washington has pledged to cooperate fully with the OCR investigations while maintaining transparency with the university community. He stated, “My philosophy is: Sunlight is disinfectant. We’re going to be transparent with the community throughout the process.”
As this situation unfolds, Washington’s leadership and the university’s future remain in a delicate balance, reflecting broader tensions surrounding diversity initiatives in higher education and the political landscape influencing them.
