AFPI accuses Cornell of discriminatory DEI recruitment practice

A conservative think tank filed federal civil rights complaint Cornell University, Criticizes the Ivy League organization for using diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in its recruitment practices and scholarships.

The First Policy Institute (AFPI) filed a complaint in late June with the U.S. Department of Justice, Education, Health and Human Services and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. (Fox Business Host Larry Kudlow is currently the vice chairman of the AFPI Board of Directors.)

Complaint says Internal documents, public policy and archived web pages show a “university-wide culture that places ideologies based on illegal identities above balanced opportunities and merits, thus achieving a mandatory and hostile environment.”

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In the allegations in the 10-page complaint, Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff served as provost during the execution of the so-called practice, overseeing the “recruitment program”, “excluding the vast majority.” Qualified candidates Race and gender only. ”

The AFPI document highlighted an email from the department chair in December 2020, introducing a plan to “we want to rent diversity”.

Kotlikoff did not directly respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment. Cornell’s deputy director of media relations Lindsey Newsstub recommended Fox News Digital to a statement posted on the university’s website.

“The university strongly questioned the allegations of the First Institute of Policy, which refers to many outdated websites or programs that have not been used in years.” Statement part reading. “Over the past year, the University has further enhanced compliance with civil rights laws and if necessary by participating in audit policies and practices with external law firms.”

It notes that “misunderstanding of policy” can occur as Cornell makes thousands of recruitment decisions each year in hundreds of departments.

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“If discrimination or bias is observed at any stage during any recruitment process, it should be reported and corrected,” the statement continued.

“Universities do not tolerate illegality Discrimination in recruitment or any other aspect of the University’s course or practice, the University has taken and will continue to take timely, effective and appropriate litigation to deal with any allegations of violation of the law or the University’s equal opportunity and anti-discrimination policy. ”

The AFPI also claimed in the complaint that the university located in Ithaca restricted scholarships based on race or race. It highlights several Identity-based scholarships Special mentions are made to Latinos, underrepresented minorities, Native Americans and African Americans.

Cornell said it manages its financial aid and scholarship programs under applicable laws.

“It’s about civil rights,” said Jessica Hart Steinmann, executive general counsel for AFPI. “Cornell’s approach violates the basic principles of federal law and equality. It’s time for the government to take action.”

President Donald Trump has Targeted DEI practices Since taking office in January. He signed an executive order to guide the federal government to terminate DEI mandates, policies, programs and activities.

The Ministry of Education is led by Secretary Linda McMahon Release memo In April, state education officials were instructed to eliminate DEI programs and practices, or risk losing federal funds.

Mother Dhillon, Assistant Attorney General of the Ministry of Justice’s Civil Rights Department Tell the Wall Street Journal Her office “will investigate all serious allegations about identity-based admissions, recruitment and student benefits.”

“Discrimination at American universities and universities must end,” she said. “Cornell is no exception.”

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