Seattle, WA (April 18, 2026)

The U.S. Department of Justice is moving to investigate the University of Washington over its handling of antisemitism on campus, according to Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon, who said she has authorized a civil rights probe into the public university.

The investigation centers in part on a student group known as Students United for Palestinian Equality and Return (SUPER UW), which officials say has been linked to prior disruptive and allegedly antisemitic activity. Dhillon pointed to a planned campus event described as a fundraiser related to Lebanon, raising concerns about its messaging and potential implications.

University officials have previously stated that SUPER UW lost its official recognition in May of last year and is not eligible for reinstatement. Despite that, individuals associated with the group have remained active, including involvement in recent demonstrations.

Authorities are also reviewing past incidents tied to the group, including a protest that caused significant damage to a university engineering building, with dozens of individuals now facing charges in connection with that event. Additional demonstrations over the weekend also drew attention after turning confrontational near a separate event in Seattle.

The university has faced mounting pressure in recent months to address concerns from Jewish students and community members about campus climate and safety. Earlier this year, university leadership held discussions with local community members to address those concerns and outline steps to combat antisemitism.

It remains unclear whether the federal review has formally begun or is in the final stages of authorization. If carried out, the probe would examine whether the university’s actions complied with federal civil rights laws governing discrimination and campus safety.