Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon has threatened a Justice Department investigation into reports of a geology camp that appears to be exclusively for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). The event, promoted by professors from Central Washington University (CWU), has drawn criticism.
Dhillon responded to a video shared on the X platform, formerly Twitter, featuring two CWU faculty members discussing an upcoming geology retreat. In the video, CWU senior lecturer Nick Zentner stated that the event is a "BIPOC community event." CWU assistant professor of geology Hannah Shamloo further explained that the goal is to "increase the participation of BIPOC members in the outdoors" and to extend a welcome to BIPOC individuals who may not have historically had the same opportunities for outdoor engagement.
Central Washington University issued a statement clarifying its position. The university stated it is not affiliated with the nonprofit organization, the Bronze Chapter, which is hosting the event, and has no direct financial involvement. However, CWU expressed support for its faculty members who volunteer their time to share their expertise with communities outside the university.
The geology event, named Rock and Role, is scheduled to take place from August 21-23. The Bronze Chapter's website describes the event as a "POC-centering geology sleepover summer camp" and also offers a BIPOC and Mixed-Race Individual and Family Sponsorship. While the website does not explicitly state race restrictions for participation, the promotional language and sponsorship details indicate a focus on BIPOC individuals.
Shamloo and Zentner did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The Bronze Chapter and the Justice Department were also contacted for comment.