West OC Times

Rep. Michelle Steel has released a statement regarding a new report from the Education and Workforce Committee, highlighting significant issues of antisemitism on college campuses across the United States, with specific mention of UCLA. The report criticizes universities for not adequately protecting Jewish students' civil rights.

"Our findings are a stunning indictment of UCLA and other universities’ failure to protect the civil rights of Jewish students," stated Rep. Steel. She emphasized her role in holding university leadership accountable for their perceived lack of action against antisemitic activities on campus. "The consequences of such inaction have been severe, as Jewish students faced harassment and campus safety was put at risk."

The report outlines several incidents related to events on April 30, 2024, at UCLA:

- It claims that UCLA allowed an environment hostile to Jewish students, violating Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.

- University leadership allegedly delayed actions against an antisemitic encampment until it reached critical mass.

- The report states that UCLA did not address antisemitic checkpoints or protect Jewish students as required by Title VI obligations.

- A failure to enforce policy reportedly led to violent conditions during protests requiring substantial law enforcement intervention.

- There were no suspensions or probations issued against students involved in antisemitic activities.

Furthermore, out of 96 arrests made during these events, 92 resolution agreements were signed without imposing consequences on those involved.

Rep. Steel concluded by affirming her commitment to seeking answers from UCLA: "All students on our campuses deserve a safe learning environment free of discrimination."