August 25, 2025
In a bold stance, the president of George Mason University, Gregory Washington, has firmly rejected calls from the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights for an apology regarding alleged discriminatory hiring practices. Washington has raised significant questions about the findings of the OCR investigation, which accused him of enforcing policies that violate civil rights laws.
In a detailed letter addressed to the university’s board, Washington’s legal representative, Douglas F. Gansler, criticized the OCR for what he described as a rushed investigation. He pointed out that the OCR only interviewed two deans from the university before arriving at their conclusions, which were made public last Friday. Gansler asserted that the OCR’s report mischaracterizes Washington’s statements and fails to accurately represent the university’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
Gansler further claimed that the OCR selectively interpreted Washington’s comments, particularly given that he is the first Black president in the university’s history. This context, he argues, is crucial in understanding the broader implications of the OCR’s findings.
“It is important to note that according to OCR’s own findings, no job applicant has faced discrimination at GMU, nor has the OCR identified any individual who has been discriminated against,” Gansler stated in his comprehensive 10-page letter. He emphasized that the claims of violations under Title VI or Title IX are unfounded.
The Department of Education has insisted on changes at GMU and has demanded a personal apology from Washington. In a recent statement, Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor criticized Washington for his previous calls to eliminate what he termed ‘racist vestiges’ from the campus, suggesting that Washington’s actions contradict his statements.
In his correspondence to the board, Gansler highlighted that under Washington’s leadership, GMU has adhered to executive orders aimed at curtailing DEI initiatives. He pointed to significant changes, including the closure of the university’s DEI office and limitations on the use of diversity statements in hiring processes.
“If the Board considers OCR’s request for Dr. Washington to apologize for alleged unlawful practices, it would undermine GMU’s compliance record. An apology would imply that the university engaged in illegal activities, potentially exposing GMU and the Board to legal repercussions for actions that did not occur during their tenure,” Gansler warned. He cautioned that acknowledging such violations could lead to punitive measures from other federal entities, including the Department of Justice.
Washington’s refusal to apologize and his challenge to the OCR’s claims come amid speculation regarding his job security. There were rumors that GMU’s Board of Visitors, which includes several conservative figures appointed by the Republican governor of Virginia, might dismiss him. However, following a lengthy closed-door meeting earlier this month, the board opted to grant Washington a raise, demonstrating support amidst protests from the community.
When approached for a statement, GMU officials directed inquiries to Gansler. The Department of Education has yet to respond to requests for comments regarding this ongoing situation.
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