Washington, D.C. – In a scathing statement released today, the head of the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights, Catherine Lhamon, has condemned a “new low” in discriminatory practices on college campuses across the country.

Lhamon’s remarks come amidst a growing number of reports detailing incidents of harassment, intimidation, and exclusion based on race, religion, gender identity, and sexual orientation. She specifically cited a surge in hate crimes, including vandalism targeting religious institutions and LGBTQ+ centers, as well as instances of discriminatory hiring practices and biased admissions procedures.

“We are seeing a deeply troubling trend,” Lhamon stated. “Instead of fostering environments of inclusion and respect, some institutions are creating hostile spaces where students and faculty feel unsafe and unwelcome.”

Lhamon also expressed concern over the increasing prevalence of “free speech” arguments used to justify discriminatory behavior. “Freedom of speech does not grant anyone the right to harass or intimidate others,” she stressed. “Our campuses are not a platform for hate speech; they are meant to be places where everyone can learn and grow.”

The Department of Education has received a significant uptick in complaints related to campus discrimination. The Office for Civil Rights is actively investigating these complaints and is working with universities to address systemic issues that contribute to these harmful practices.

“We will not tolerate discrimination in any form,” Lhamon declared. “We are committed to ensuring that all students have the opportunity to receive a quality education in a safe and inclusive environment.”

The announcement has been met with mixed reactions. Some applaud Lhamon’s strong stance, while others express concern that her comments could stifle free speech on campus.

Campus leaders are urged to prioritize inclusivity and diversity, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all students. This includes implementing robust anti-discrimination policies, providing comprehensive training for faculty and staff, and creating accessible resources for students who experience discrimination.

The fight against discrimination on college campuses is an ongoing struggle. Lhamon’s call to action serves as a powerful reminder that the responsibility for creating inclusive environments lies with every member of the university community.