The University of Washington has been informed that the federal Task Force aimed at Combating Anti-Semitism has commenced a review of federal grants and contracts associated with the University. This follows a protracted building occupation on May 5 that resulted in substantial damage to the facility and its interior assets, including setting dumpsters ablaze outside the premises, and obstructing first responders. Thirty-four individuals have been apprehended and are facing criminal charges along with University disciplinary actions. The 21 students taken into custody have been suspended and barred from all UW campuses. Non-student participants will be prohibited from the UW’s Seattle campus.  

The University of Washington denounces antisemitism, harassment, and discrimination. During the incident on May 5th, the UW maintained communication with leaders from the campus and Seattle Jewish communities. We appreciate these collaborations and acknowledge their profound concerns. The Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle released a public statement highlighting the University’s prompt action and firm repudiation of antisemitism. 

The University of Washington is fully compliant with Title VI and other federal civil rights legislation. We also acknowledge the necessity for ongoing enhancement and have been implementing tangible measures for several months to foster a better campus environment for Jewish students, staff, faculty, and visitors. This initiative includes the establishment of a dedicated Title VI coordinator role, training to prevent discrimination based on shared ancestry, a thorough review of University policies and protocols, strengthening community ties with Jewish organizations, refining bias incident reporting and response mechanisms, and centralizing anti-discrimination compliance in a newly formed Civil Rights Compliance Office. Furthermore, this March, the University’s Board of Regents decisively rejected a suggestion to divest from firms linked to Israel. 

The University values its enduring collaboration with the federal government. We will assist with the Task Force’s evaluation and are optimistic that the review will affirm our adherence to federal civil rights regulations.