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Michigan Department of Civil Rights Reacts to U.S. Dept. of Education Fines for MSU in Nassar/Strampel Cases

LANSING--Today, Mary Engelman, Interim Director of the Michigan Department of Civil Rights and Director of the Michigan Women’s Commission has issued the following statement on the U.S. Department of Education plan to levy a $4.5 million fine against Michigan State University and require an overhaul of the University’s Title IX compliance procedures.

“Nothing is more important than knowing your child’s safety and welfare are a top priority for the college they attend. MSU failed students, parents and the entire MSU community when they allowed a serial sexual predator to harm young women for decades. We are gratified that in their action today, the U.S. Department of Education has made it clear that protecting students is an obligation that MSU and all colleges and universities must meet. We are also encouraged by the message of zero tolerance for sexual abuse and harassment from new MSU President Stanley, and his commitment to creating a culture of diversity and safety on campus.”

The Michigan Civil Rights Commission was created by the Michigan Constitution to safeguard constitutional and legal guarantees against discrimination. The Michigan Department of Civil Rights, the investigational arm of the Michigan Civil Rights Commission, is charged with investigating and resolving discrimination complaints and working to prevent discrimination through educational programs that promote voluntary compliance with civil rights laws. The Department also provides information and services to businesses on diversity initiatives and equal employment law. 

For more information on the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, go to www.michigan.gov/mdcr.

 

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