The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has opened an investigation into the National Education Association, the nation’s largest labor union, over allegations of antisemitic discrimination, the Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law announced on Monday.
The center is representing the Louis D. Brandeis Center Coalition to Combat Antisemitism, which filed a Title VII complaint against the NEA in May alleging that the association had discriminated against Jewish members in a “sustained” pattern and fostered a hostile environment within the union and its affiliates.
“Our goal is not merely to end antisemitic discrimination and harassment at the NEA but also to ensure an equal playing field for members of all races, religions and national origins,” said Kenneth L. Marcus, chairman and chief executive officer of the Brandeis Center and a former U.S. assistant secretary of education for civil rights.
“We appreciate the EEOC’s decision to open an investigation into our client’s discrimination charge against the NEA and are grateful for the agency’s swift response and commitment to enforcing Title VII of the Civil Rights Act on behalf of all Americans,” he said.
Marcus added that the agency’s response reflects “the high degree of attention and professionalism” he has observed during the tenure of EEOC Chair Andrea Lucas.
A spokesperson for the commission told JNS that any charges filed or charge inquiries made are “confidential” under federal law.
An NEA spokesman told JNS that the association is “aware of the complaint and the coverage.”
“We take concerns like this seriously and are reviewing the matter through our established processes,” the spokesman said. “NEA does not tolerate antisemitism in any form and is committed to ensuring that all members and students, including Jewish members and students, can work and learn in a safe and welcoming environment.”
“Out of respect for that process, we won’t have additional comment at this time,” the spokesman added.
