Among the most prominent names is Jewish philosopher Judith Butler, a leading feminist and queer theory scholar, long known for her criticism of Israel.

The university confirmed the decision came from UC’s general counsel, following federal investigations into campus complaints of antisemitic harassment. Faculty on the list recently received warning letters from university lawyers stating their names had been forwarded to the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights. Butler’s letter said she was under investigation for “harassment and antisemitic discrimination” and must present documentation.

UC spokesperson Rachel Zenz stressed that, like all public universities, UC is subject to oversight by state and federal agencies: “We routinely receive requests for documents as part of reviews and investigations. We are committed to protecting privacy while fulfilling our legal obligations.”