Department of Education Opens Investigations into Two Higher Education Institutions Following Holtzman Vogel Clients’ Complaints About Antisemitism
The Department of Education has opened investigations into the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and Colorado College for allegations of antisemitism on campus. Last year Holtzman Vogel filed complaints against both institutions for violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, alleging that these institutions did not take the necessary measures to protect Jewish students from ongoing harassment and discrimination.
The Department of Education’s investigation brings necessary national attention to the ongoing issue of antisemitism on college campuses across the United States, especially following Hamas’ attack against Israel on October 7, 2023. Holtzman Vogel applauds the Department of Education for recognizing the need to address and curtail discrimination against Jewish students at higher education institutions.
The complaint against the University of Massachusetts at Amherst was filed by Holtzman Vogel attorneys Jason Torchinsky and Erielle Davidson and attorney Doug Brooks of Libby Hoopes Brooks & Mulvey, P.C. on behalf of the Anti-Defamation League and the Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law in April 2024. The complaint against Colorado College was filed by Holtzman Vogel attorneys Jason Torchinsky and John Cycon and NJAC President Mark Goldfeder on behalf of the National Jewish Advocacy Center, Inc. in August 2024. Both complaints include extensive examples of the abuse faced by Jewish students on campus.
Since the events of October 7, Holtzman Vogel has represented students from colleges and universities across the country affected by antisemitism as well as victims of the attacks. The firm is committed to continuing to advocate for those impacted.
