The U.S. Department of Education has initiated an investigation into the Ithaca City School District (ICSD) in New York, following allegations of racial discrimination against White students. The investigation stems from a complaint filed by Cornell Law Professor William Jacobson, founder of the Equal Protection Project, concerning the district's annual Student of Color United (SOCU) Summits.

Jacobson alleges a four-year pattern of systematically excluding White students from these summits. He points to an FAQ section on the SOCU Summit website that reportedly explained why White students were not invited and required attendees to acknowledge the event as exclusively for students of color. Jacobson asserts this practice was widespread, involving numerous teachers, administrators, and the Board of Education, despite community objections.

While ICSD has denied any discriminatory practices, claiming all programs are open to all students regardless of race, the Equal Protection Project contends the exclusionary practices persisted. The Office of Civil Rights has confirmed it will investigate whether ICSD violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in federally funded programs. This investigation comes on the heels of a recent executive order aimed at ending diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.

Jacobson emphasized the need for accountability for the alleged four-year discriminatory campaign, stating that a mere promise to cease such practices is insufficient. He believes the district's administration and Board of Education were aware of the issue and should be held responsible. ICSD has not yet responded to requests for comment.