University of California (UC) President James B. Milliken is warning of significant federal actions that could affect all UC campuses and hospitals. The Trump administration has already imposed a $1.2-billion fine and proposed changes to UCLA, which Milliken described as “minor in comparison” to potential broader impacts. He emphasized the need to consider the implications of expanded federal action across the entire UC system.
The federal government is investigating allegations of illegal use of race in admissions at several UC campuses, including Irvine, Berkeley, and San Francisco. Civil rights complaints have also been lodged at UCLA, Davis, San Diego, and Santa Barbara, with a UC-wide investigation into alleged discrimination against Jews in hiring and promotion.
Milliken noted that these federal actions could lead to layoffs, budget cuts, and suspensions of federal grants, affecting UC’s role as California’s second-largest employer. The Trump administration’s 28-page proposal to UCLA includes overhauls in hiring, admissions, sports, scholarships, and gender identity policies. UC has not agreed to the proposal, and students, faculty, and staff are urging the university to resist the administration’s demands.
A faculty group has filed a lawsuit, accusing UC of violating public records law by not releasing the full text of the settlement proposal. The group argues that transparency is necessary to understand the potential impact on the California economy, academic success, and civil rights.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has expressed support for a lawsuit against the Trump administration, calling the proposed settlement “ransom” and “extortion.” However, the decision to file a lawsuit rests with the UC regents.
Milliken reassured the UC community that protecting the institution’s resources, mission, and values is a top priority. He acknowledged the challenges ahead, describing the situation as “uncharted waters.”
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