No student wants their academic career marred by incidents of racial discrimination, especially when the discrimination arises from the actions of their school's administration and staff. Racial discrimination in education is illegal under the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964. Specifically, Title VI of the act prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, and national origin in programs that receive federal financial assistance. Public schools and colleges are covered by the law because they receive money from the federal government. Private schools that receive federal money are also covered by Title VI. The law is wide-ranging in effect, and almost every school in the country must follow its mandates and avoid discrimination. Even though this is the law, some schools do not comply. A Kansas community college recently settled with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) after the federal government accused the institution of discriminating against black students in violation of Title VI.

Alleged Discrimination at Highland Community College

According to a news report, Highland Community College, a two-year school with its main campus in Highland, Kansas, agreed to the non-monetary settlement after the DOJ claimed the institution discriminated against black students, many of whom were athletes. The DOJ alleged campus security unfairly focused on black students when conducting dorm room searches and surveillance of the student body. Highland's student disciplinary process was also biased against black students since they were given more severe punishments than their white peers, the department said. As punishment, Highland removed black students from campus housing or expelled them, according to the news report.

Highland Community College Agrees it Will Not Discriminate on the Basis of Race

Highland did not admit to any violations of law under the settlement. To resolve the DOJ's allegations, however, the school agreed that it would not discriminate on the basis of race in any of its operations, including campus security and the disciplinary process. When Highland is made aware of an incident involving possible racial harassment, the school has pledged to take quick action to end the problem. The college must also hire a consultant to make any needed changes to its policies on security, discipline, housing, and responses to situations of racial harassment. The DOJ must approve any policy changes the school makes, according to the news report.

Highland Community College Previously Settled Racial Bias Lawsuits

Prior to its settlement with the DOJ, Highland resolved two lawsuits claiming the school discriminated against black students, the news article said. The first suit alleged the student disciplinary process was racially discriminatory and resulted in black athletes being forced out of school. The second lawsuit claimed Highland tried to discourage black students from enrolling, told coaches not to recruit black athletes, and tried to get black athletes to leave, according to the news report.

If You Experience Racial Discrimination at School, You Need Strong Legal Representation

If you or a family member has experienced racial discrimination at any type of school, whether by fellow students or school employees, you should be proactive. You should contact an experienced lawyer who can help you and enforce your right to a bias-free education. The Lento Law Firm's Education Law Team is ready, regardless of your location. The Education Law Team has assisted students nationwide and is not afraid to challenge a school to fight for what is right. Call us at 888-535-3686 or contact us online.