Trump administration launches anti-Semitsm probe into University of Washington

The U.S. government has initiated an examination into reported incidents of anti-Semitic actions at the University of Washington and its linked campuses. This review involves the Departments of Education, Health and Human Services, and the General Services Administration. The investigation was announced following the arrest of around 30 pro-Palestinian demonstrators at the Seattle campus of UW. The protesters, who had taken over an engineering building, were demanding the university cut ties with Boeing, which had donated $10 million for the building in 2022.

U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon emphasized that the Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism is determined to prevent these protesters from disrupting campus life and infringing on the rights of students, particularly Jewish students who feel threatened on campus. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stressed that the focus is on whether a federally funded university is adhering to the law, safeguarding civil rights, and creating a secure environment for all students.

Damage from the clash at UW was estimated at over $1 million, as reported by the university’s student newspaper, The Daily. The protest, led by the Students United for Palestinian Equality and Return, resulted in confrontations with campus, city, and state law enforcement, causing significant property damage and fires. Arrested demonstrators are now facing charges including property destruction, trespassing, and disorderly conduct.

UW President Ana Mari Cauce condemned the violence, asserting that the university will not be intimidated by such behavior and will not engage in discussions with groups endorsing destructive tactics. The university is collaborating with the King County jail authorities to identify any students who were arrested.

While the White House commended UW’s condemnation of the violence, it urged the university to take further steps to prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of Jewish students. President Cauce reaffirmed the university’s commitment to opposing anti-Semitism, racism, and all forms of bias to create a welcoming and secure environment for everyone on campus.

The Trump administration had previously targeted UW and other institutions over concerns of discrimination against Jewish students, threatening funding cuts if adequate measures were not taken. The administration’s stance on addressing protests and potential consequences for those involved has been made clear in recent statements and actions.