A federal judge ruled in August 2024 that the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) failed to protect the access of Jewish students to all parts of campus during pro-Palestinian protests. Judge Mark Scarsi found that Jewish students at UCLA could not get access to some parts of campus and that UCLA blamed third-party protesters but failed to take action to prevent issues. The order gives UCLA a short period to address and reverse any school policies or procedures that prevent or limit access on campus to Jewish students.

The Lento Law Firm has a long history of advocacy for free speech on campus, but we also firmly support the rights of all students to safety and fair access. If you or your student have faced issues on campus due to antisemitism or any other type of racial, ethnic, or religious harassment, the Lento Law Firm is here to provide the support and help you need. Call us at 888.535.3686 or provide your details online, and we will contact you.

Legal Protections Against Discrimination

College and university students can find protections in federal laws prohibiting discrimination on campus. Federal laws prohibiting religious discrimination by colleges or universities are complex, and students seeking legal assistance should make sure they have an experienced attorney. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or ethnicity but also prohibits religious discrimination where a racial element or identity is present. In many cases, Title VI has been used to address antisemitism. Title VI applies to any college or university receiving federal funding.

Colleges and universities must also protect their students' religious affiliation and practice rights under the First Amendment. If they fail to do so, the college can be sued under federal civil rights statute 42 USC §1983. The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals has held in Intervarsity Christian Fellowship/ USA v University of Iowa that even in complex situations (such as the current campus protests), colleges cannot prevent problems by “picking and choosing what type of discrimination is okay.” Colleges and universities must protect free speech and free religious exercise on campus. If Jewish students face issues related to the pro-Palestinian protests, they can make a claim against their university or college.

If You Face Safety or Access Issues on Campus

Many students have faced safety or access issues on campus during nationwide protests. Some students have been too frightened to attend class or have avoided certain parts of campus. Others find they cannot wear ethnic/religious clothing or jewelry or attend religious events out of safety fears. Some students have even faced physical violence or assault. If you are experiencing any of the above, call the Lento Law Firm. While we advocate for free speech rights on campus, we also strongly advocate for the rights of students to feel safe and not face religious harassment. Call 888.535.3686 or provide your details online, and we will contact you.