When college professors are under fire for violating federal Title VI law, the consequences are real. Investigations alone can quickly upend one's reputation and leave them fighting for years to regain their place in the academic profession. The Lento Law Firm provides top-tier assistance to college and university employees navigating allegations on campus, including Title VI breaches. Call us now at 888-535-3686 or visit our online consultation form, and we will get back to you.  

Texas Tech Alleges Professor Made Antisemitic Comments  

Texas Tech University placed an assistant professor on leave, alleging they made “hateful, antisemitic and unacceptable” comments on social media. In a statement from university officials, they did not disclose details of the allegations, only remarking they were “antithetical” to the university's values and ethical code of conduct. The system's Office of Equal Opportunity is also investigating whether the assistant professor made similar comments in other campus environments. 

Texas Tech President Lawrence Schovanec and university system Chancellor Tedd Mitchell explained they “take the First Amendment's application to public universities seriously.” While free speech protections remain intact when professors step on campus, the university is compelled to act. The joint statement included a recent warning from the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights, asserting that institutions violate Title VI civil rights law if they fail to “ quickly respond” to discrimination and harassment on campus, “such as antisemitic harassment.” 

Title VI's Expanded Authority  

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in programs and activities that receive federal funding, such as colleges and universities. In terms of a renewed federal directive, the White House instituted an executive order in 2019 expanding authority to prohibit antisemitic discrimination. 

While Title VI affects college professors by requiring them to maintain non-discriminatory practices in their academic activities, these practices sometimes merge with actions in private life. As a public-facing employee, a university professor's social media presence and actions can influence how they engage with students and colleagues and remain aligned with institutional policies ensuring educational inclusivity.   

How Can the Lento Law Firm Help with Title VI Violations? 

For the Texas Tech college professor, Title VI can have a significant impact on their professional responsibilities as investigations are often quick, so the institution's funding is kept intact. Yet, the process is just as harsh for students with allegations levied against them. Fortunately, college professors, employees, and students have the opportunity to gain the guidance they need to defend against disciplinary boards.  

The Lento Law Firm Education Law Team is well-versed in how the federal requirements of Title VI compel colleges to seek fast-paced investigations and harsh punishment following allegations of discrimination. Our team of attorneys understand how such a situation can easily disrupt the routine of teaching or learning, and will work tirelessly to help you defend yourself against allegations. Call the Lento Law Firm Education Law Team now at 888-535-3686 or visit our online consultation form and we will get back to you.