A government watchdog organization, the Equal Protection Project (EPP), has recently filed a civil rights complaint against Missouri State University (MSU), alleging that the institution's business boot camp program engaged in illegal discrimination against white males. According to FOX News, the EPP argues that the program excluded white males from participation based on their race and gender, violating civil rights laws. The complaint calls for an investigation into the program's approval process and seeks remedial measures to end discriminatory practices.
Allegations and Violations
The EPP has accused Missouri State University's business boot camp program of violating the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. According to the complaint, the program limited participation exclusively to individuals who identified as "BIPOC" (Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color) or were female, thereby excluding white males from eligibility. This alleged discrimination based on race and gender runs counter to the principles of equal protection and non-discrimination enshrined in federal law.
Missouri State University's Early-Stage Business Boot Camp program, which ran for eight weeks, was designed to support aspiring or current BIPOC and/or women small business owners in Southern Missouri. Participants received a $3,000 stipend to cover transportation, childcare, or other business-related expenses. The program received funding from the U.S. Bank Foundation and the Missouri Scholarship and Loan Foundation.
Following a complaint the EPP filed with the Missouri Attorney General, Missouri State University declared that everyone would be able to participate in the program, regardless of their race or sexual orientation. MSU emphasized that the program aimed to assist new and aspiring small business owners in establishing and growing their businesses. While the Spring 2023 program had a specific focus on minority and/or woman-owned businesses, the university pledged to offer the Early-Stage Business Boot Camp Program without any restrictions based on race or sex in the future.
Equal Protection Project's Stance
The founder of the Equal Protection Project, William A. Jacobson, acknowledged MSU's response as a "good first step." However, Jacobson emphasized the need for the university to publicly acknowledge its wrongdoing and outline concrete steps to rectify the exclusion of individuals based on race and sex. He further called for transparency regarding potential other segregated or discriminatory programs, urging MSU to conduct comprehensive investigations and implement measures to prevent future instances of misconduct.
The civil rights complaint filed against Missouri State University's business boot camp program highlights the ongoing discussions around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in educational institutions. It raises questions about the approval process for programs that could potentially discriminate against certain groups and the need for proactive measures to ensure fairness and equal opportunities for all individuals. The Office for Civil Rights of the U.S. Department of Education will now review the complaint and determine appropriate actions to address the allegations of discrimination against white males in MSU's business boot camp program.
The civil rights complaint against Missouri State University's business boot camp program has brought attention to allegations of discrimination against white males. The Equal Protection Project argues that the program's exclusionary criteria based on race and gender violate federal civil rights laws. MSU's response to the complaint signals a shift toward inclusivity, but further action is necessary to rectify the harm caused and prevent future instances of discrimination. The Office for Civil Rights will now play a crucial role in investigating the allegations and ensuring that equal rights and opportunities are upheld in educational programs across the nation.
