Attorney General Rokita targets Notre Dame for alleged DEI policies
Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita has initiated an investigation into the University of Notre Dame’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, raising concerns about potential violations of civil rights laws and the university’s nonprofit status.
Allegations and Concerns
In a letter addressed to Notre Dame’s president, Rev. Robert A. Dowd, Rokita alleges that the university’s 2023 Strategic Framework and public materials suggest discriminatory practices. Specifically, he points to initiatives aimed at increasing representation of “underrepresented” groups among students and faculty, tracking enrollment in courses taught by faculty who resemble these groups, and hosting multicultural recognition ceremonies. Rokita argues that such practices may breach Indiana’s anti-discrimination laws and federal laws, especially in light of the 2023 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, which imposed restrictions on race-based admissions.
University’s Response
The University of Notre Dame has responded by emphasizing its commitment to lawful practices and its Catholic mission. In a statement, the university asserted:
“Notre Dame is a premier Catholic research university, and as such, seeks to serve and reflect the broader Catholic Church, which is the world’s most global, multicultural, and multilingual institution. We do not engage in unlawful discrimination in our hiring or admissions processes and look to attract the best and brightest to our campus.”
Potential Implications
Rokita has requested detailed documentation from Notre Dame, including information on admissions and hiring practices, changes made following the Supreme Court decision, and guidance provided to faculty and staff regarding DEI goals. The university has been given until June 9 to respond. Failure to comply could lead to legal action and jeopardize the university’s nonprofit status.
This investigation adds to the scrutiny Notre Dame faces, as the U.S. Department of Education included the university among 50 institutions targeted for allegedly using racial preferences and stereotypes in education programs earlier this year
