Story perspectives

Conservative Group Alleges Discrimination in WashU's DEI Programs

1/8/2026

48 11

Summary

Story summary

America First Legal (AFL), a conservative legal group, filed a complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice against Washington University in St. Louis.
The 165-page filing alleges illegal race and sex-based discrimination through WashU's DEI programs.
The filing argues WashU's practices violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and a 2025 executive order prohibiting race-based DEI structures.
It also cites a Bias Report system that allegedly suppresses free speech.

1 of 1

Story summary

America First Legal (AFL), a conservative legal group, filed a complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice against Washington University in St. Louis.
The 165-page filing alleges illegal race and sex-based discrimination through WashU's DEI programs.
The filing argues WashU's practices violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and a 2025 executive order prohibiting race-based DEI structures.
It also cites a Bias Report system that allegedly suppresses free speech.