Federal Funding Threatens UMass Amid Antisemitism Investigations

AMHERST, Mass. — The University of Massachusetts Amherst has received a warning letter from the U.S. Department of Education‘s Office of Civil Rights (OCR), which could escalate to enforcement actions if the university fails to uphold Title VI of the Civil Rights Act in safeguarding Jewish students. This announcement, made on March 11, arises amid a broader investigation into 60 universities facing potential violations related to antisemitic harassment.

In a press release, UMass stated, ‘The university condemns hatred, including antisemitism, in all forms,’ and is committed to working with the OCR to effectively address these issues. The letter follows the cancellation of $400 million in federal funding to Columbia University, which was a direct response to ongoing inaction regarding harassment faced by Jewish students.

On March 7, President Donald Trump commented on the funding issue via Truth Social, threatening to cut federal financial support to institutions permitting illegal protests, raising concerns over First Amendment rights. According to UMass, the university received over $322 million in federal funding for the fiscal year 2024, including significant allocations for research, graduate student support, and Title IV funding, which aids in providing Pell Grants and federal loans.

In a related development, the Department of Agriculture froze just under $30 million intended for research and youth programs at the University of Maine on March 11, 2025, one day after the OCR letter was sent. This decision highlights a growing trend of federal scrutiny over university responses to allegations of discrimination.

UMass currently faces three open OCR investigations. One complaint alleges anti-Palestinian and anti-Arab discrimination, submitted by Palestine Legal in April 2024, while another claims antisemitism filed in February 2024 by Campus Reform. Additionally, a Title IX complaint has been pending since May 2020. The outcomes of these investigations may significantly influence the university’s federal funding status.

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) also filed a complaint in April 2024, citing perceived indifference to antisemitism at UMass. However, the status of this complaint remains unclear, as the ADL could not be reached for comment. Following the ADL’s evaluation in 2023, which awarded UMass an “F” on its Campus Antisemitism Report Card, the university’s Hillel organization criticized the ratings, arguing they misrepresent the university’s climate for Jewish students.

UMass’s response resulted in a score of “D” on the 2025 report card, indicating ongoing concerns about its handling of antisemitism on campus. The administration asserts it is addressing these incidents with care. UMass Hillel emphasized the commitment of Chancellor Reyes and the university’s leadership to the wellbeing of Jewish students.

As investigations continue, the focus remains on how UMass will manage its obligations under federal law and protect its federal funding in light of these serious allegations.