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The federal Department of Education opened an investigation into Portland State University on Monday, alleging widespread antisemitic harassment at the institution.
The investigations into five universities, first reported by Jewish Insider, come as a result of an executive order from President Donald Trump, aiming to establish additional measures to combat antisemitism. The order specifically calls out antisemitism on college campuses, apparently referencing nationwide college protests that emerged during spring 2024 to demand a ceasefire in Gaza.
“Jewish students have faced an unrelenting barrage of discrimination; denial of access to campus common areas and facilities, including libraries and classrooms; and intimidation, harassment, and physical threats and assault,” the executive order reads.
PSU spokesperson Katy Swordfisk told WW the university takes antisemitism concerns seriously and strives to make campus inclusive and respectful to all community members.
“It is the university’s understanding that the Feb. 3 notice from the U.S. Department of Education initiates a directed investigation — which means it is not based on a specific complaint from an individual, but instead is prompted by the new administration," Swordfisk said. “The notice of investigation is not in itself evidence of any violation. PSU will cooperate fully with the U.S. Department of Education.”
PSU made headlines in spring 2024 for an encampment that turned into a multi-day occupation of the Millar Library. The occupiers did $1.23 million in damage before police removed them. Campus protestors demanded the university sever ties with Boeing, call for a ceasefire in Gaza and stop selling Israeli-made merchandise on campus.
The university ultimately paused connections with Boeing, which had previously made investments at PSU. Students protested the company because it helped build Israel’s missile-defense system and shipped it bombs after Hamas’ Oct. 7 attacks.
The Department of Education specifically referenced campus encampments for Gaza in its announcement of the investigations.
“Too many universities have tolerated widespread antisemitic harassment and the illegal encampments that paralyzed campus life last year, driving Jewish life and religious expression underground,” Craig Trainor, the DOE’s acting assistant secretary for civil rights, said in a release.
“Today, the Department is putting universities, colleges, and K-12 schools on notice: this administration will not tolerate continued institutional indifference to the wellbeing of Jewish students on American campuses, nor will it stand by idly if universities fail to combat Jew hatred and the unlawful harassment and violence it animates.”
Columbia University, Northwestern University, the University of California Berkeley, and the University of Minnesota Twin Cities are the other four universities facing investigations.