Story perspectives

UC's Puente Project Faces Discrimination Complaint Over Latino Focus

1/19/2026

50 6

Summary

Story summary

The University of California faces a civil rights complaint alleging the Puente Project discriminates against non-Latino students.
The Equal Protection Project says the program is funded with $13 million in state money and primarily serves Latino students, violating the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
They argue the program's structure sends exclusionary signals that deter non-Latino applicants.
The University defended the program's legality, stating it complies with anti-discrimination laws.

1 of 1

Story summary

The University of California faces a civil rights complaint alleging the Puente Project discriminates against non-Latino students.
The Equal Protection Project says the program is funded with $13 million in state money and primarily serves Latino students, violating the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
They argue the program's structure sends exclusionary signals that deter non-Latino applicants.
The University defended the program's legality, stating it complies with anti-discrimination laws.