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Temple, Muhlenberg College under investigation by Education Department for alleged discrimination

U.S. Dept. of Education adds Temple to list of schools under investigation for alleged discriminatio
U.S. Dept. of Education adds Temple to list of schools under investigation for alleged discriminatio 00:37

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The Department of Education has added Temple University and Allentown's Muhlenberg College to the list of schools under investigation for alleged discrimination.

The Office for Civil Rights opened the investigations into "discrimination involving shared ancestry" under Title VI Jan. 16, according to the department's website. 

The colleges join Drexel University, Rutgers University and Lafayette College, among others around the country, on the list of schools with recently opened investigations.

RELATED: UPenn, Lafayette College among 7 schools in Education Department's antisemitism, Islamophobia probe

The University of Pennsylvania is also under investigation by two U.S. House of Representatives committees for alleged antisemitism. 

Former Penn President Liz Magill came under fire last month after she spoke about antisemitism at a hearing in front of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce. She and Penn's board chair Scott Bok resigned shortly after that hearing.

READ MORE: Penn President Liz Magill, board chair Scott Bok resign after controversial congressional hearing on antisemitism

A Temple University spokesperson sent us this statement on the situation Wednesday:

Temple University unequivocally condemns hate and discrimination against any person and will always strive to ensure that all of our students, faculty, and staff feel welcomed and safe in our community and throughout our campus. 

We are aware of the Department of Education complaint and intend on fully complying, providing the department with robust information on how we are supporting our community through these challenging times. As this situation evolves, the university will continue to adapt, ensuring that all members of this community have access to the support and resources that they need.

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