Federal Funding Halted for Duke Health Amid DEI Controversy

Duke Health, the medical branch of Duke University in North Carolina, faces a significant financial setback as over $100 million in federal funding is frozen. This action follows an executive order by President Donald Trump prohibiting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) practices. The decision was communicated through a letter addressed to Duke President Vincent Price, Chairman of the Board of Trustees Adam Silver, and School of Medicine Dean Mary Klotman by Secretaries Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and Linda McMahon.

Allegations of Racial Preferences in Hiring and Admissions

The letter accuses Duke Health of engaging in racial preferences across various domains, including hiring, student admissions, governance, and patient care. Kennedy and McMahon argue that such practices betray the core mission of American healthcare and pose a danger to human lives. They emphasize that merit-based selection is crucial in medicine, where the competence of healthcare professionals can mean the difference between life and death.

Investigation Under Civil Rights Act and Affordable Care Act

The allegations against Duke Health are being investigated under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act. These laws prohibit discrimination based on race, color, national origin, disability, age, and sex for recipients of federal financial assistance. The secretaries assert that Duke Health’s practices render it unfit for further financial relationships with the federal government.

Potential Consequences and Future Partnerships

A senior administration official confirmed that the frozen funding amounts to $108 million. Despite this setback, federal officials have left open the possibility for future partnerships with Duke Health. They acknowledge the institution’s longstanding commitment to medical excellence and express a preference for resolving these issues. To restore its standing, Duke Health must review its policies regarding race preferences and provide assurances of compliance with federal laws.

Enforcement Proceedings Loom if Issues Persist

The letter warns that if the alleged discriminatory practices are not rectified within six months or if negotiations reach an impasse, enforcement proceedings will commence. This situation highlights the ongoing debate over affirmative action and its implications for civil rights and healthcare standards in the United States.