Following a series of campus protests marked by anti-Jewish propaganda, Attorney General Todd Rokita has issued a stern warning to college officials. He emphasized their obligation to enforce Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which mandates combating all forms of antisemitism on campuses, or risk losing federal funding.
In a letter to college officials, Attorney General Rokita stated, "My team and I are deeply committed to ending antisemitism in all forms. Some Indiana colleges and universities boast large populations of Jewish students. If these students face antisemitism on campus without corrective measures, they may bring an action under Title VI against your university by alleging a hostile environment or retaliation."
The past academic year has seen violent and disruptive protests across campuses nationwide in the wake of last year's deadly attack on Israel by terrorist group Hamas. As the 2023-24 academic year concludes, there remains potential for continued campus protests and further antisemitic agitation.
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination based on "race, color, and national origin" in programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance. As such, Indiana state-run higher educational institutions that receive federal funding are subject to Title VI.
Attorney General Rokita also reminded college officials of their duty to ensure student groups do not materially support foreign terrorist organizations. The upcoming House Enrolled Act 1179, effective from July 1, 2024, necessitates state educational institutions to adopt policies prohibiting the provision of funds or other resources to foreign terrorist organizations or state sponsors of terror.
He further clarified that those inciting violence or committing criminal acts cannot use the First Amendment as a shield against culpability. "Protecting our Jewish students requires accountability on the university’s part," Attorney General Rokita said. "I strongly encourage them to enforce university codes of conduct and the law when necessary to put an end to antisemitism and the promotion of terrorism on your campuses. That way we can ensure that all students, including our Jewish brothers and sisters, are safe and have an equal access to education."
Attached is the letter sent to Indiana’s public higher educational institutions.