University of Chicago faces federal complaint over anti-Palestinian bias

The University of Chicago is facing a federal civil rights complaint filed by Palestine Legal, which alleges anti-Palestinian discrimination and censorship on campus. The complaint, submitted to the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights, details incidents from October 2023 to June 2024 that reportedly created a hostile environment for Palestinian, Arab, and Muslim students. Students have reported harassment, police surveillance, and disciplinary actions against those involved in pro-Palestinian protests. One student, K, described an incident where she was assaulted by a federal marshal while attempting to ask a question at a university event. Another student, Yousef Hasweh, faced disciplinary hearings and had his diploma withheld due to his participation in a pro-Palestinian encampment. The university has been accused of failing to protect these students from discrimination and harassment, instead prioritizing disciplinary measures and surveillance. In response to the complaint, the University of Chicago stated its commitment to inclusivity and free expression, despite the allegations of a hostile environment for certain student groups. The situation has raised concerns about the balance between free speech and the treatment of marginalized communities on campus, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza and its impact on student activism.