HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing.com

Penn Antisemitism Probe Tests Trump Admin Power

New York Times Top Stories •
×

A federal judge in Philadelphia will hear arguments Tuesday in a case that pits the Trump administration against the University of Pennsylvania over demands for information about Jewish students and staff. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission subpoenaed the university for contact details of Jewish students, faculty, and staff, citing an investigation into antisemitism on campus.

The case stems from allegations that Penn tolerated harassment based on religion and national origin. Andrea R. Lucas, now EEOC chairwoman and a Penn alumna, initiated the investigation in 2023 after citing news reports and congressional testimony. The commission has requested extensive records including membership rosters of Jewish student organizations and lists of employees in Penn's Jewish Studies Program since November 2022.

University officials argue the demands violate constitutional rights and could endanger community members. The case has unified Penn's campus, with students, faculty, and staff joining forces against the government's request. Legal experts say the outcome could determine how aggressively federal agencies can investigate universities nationwide, potentially setting precedents for future government inquiries into campus antisemitism.