Rice University under federal investigation for alleged discrimination
The U.S. Department of Education has launched an investigation into Rice University and 44 other institutions over allegations of racial discrimination in their admissions and academic programs. The probe follows the Trump administration’s push to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs nationwide. The Department asserts that these universities may have violated Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act by partnering with organizations accused of using “race-exclusionary practices.” Rice University, which receives federal funding and must comply with anti-discrimination laws, declined to comment on the investigation. The University of North Texas in Denton is the only other Texas institution under scrutiny. U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon stated that the department is intensifying civil rights enforcement to ensure students are not discriminated against based on race.
Mayor John Whitmire offers retirement incentives to city workers
Houston Mayor John Whitmire is offering voluntary retirement packages to 2,700 city employees—over 10% of the municipal workforce—as part of a plan to tackle the city’s $330 million budget deficit. In a letter to city employees, Whitmire emphasized that personnel costs make up a significant portion of the budget, and the city must undergo restructuring to become more efficient. The mayor has also implemented a hiring freeze across all city departments except police and fire. City Controller Chris Hollins noted that the hiring freeze is expected to gradually reduce the workforce through natural attrition. The buyout initiative follows a study conducted by professional services firm Ernst & Young, which recommended streamlining operations. City officials assure employees that layoffs are not imminent but stress the importance of long-term financial sustainability.
Fifth Ward residents offered free cancer screenings amid toxic concerns
Residents of Houston’s Fifth Ward will have access to free cancer screenings as part of a new initiative addressing environmental health concerns in the neighborhood. City Council member Letitia Plummer has partnered with the National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) to launch the program, which aims to enroll 100,000 participants nationwide over the next five years. The screenings come as the EPA continues testing soil and water in the area for toxic chemicals linked to the former Houston Wood Preserving Works site. Volunteers will go door-to-door offering screenings, with priority given to longtime residents. Plummer emphasized the importance of early detection, particularly for Fifth Ward’s predominantly Black and low-income population. If residents test positive for cancer indicators and lack insurance, Harris Health will assist in securing coverage. Beyond testing, the initiative seeks to increase Black representation in clinical research, addressing longstanding disparities in medical treatments. Grace Clinic will administer screenings, with Quest Diagnostics conducting lab tests under an Institutional Review Board to ensure ethical oversight.
