Columbia University students organized competing memorials and rallies for both Israel and Palestine on the one-year anniversary of the October 7th Hamas attack, demonstrating in New York City.
The U.S. government has canceled $400 million in federal grants and contracts to Columbia University due to what officials described as the institution’s failure to address antisemitism on campus.
This cancellation was disclosed in a joint statement from various departments, including the Department of Justice and the Department of Education. The statement asserted that the decision was made because of the university’s ongoing inaction in response to persistent harassment of Jewish students.
Details regarding which specific programs at Columbia may be impacted by this funding cancellation remain unclear. The statement indicated that this action is only the “first round” and further cancellations are anticipated. Columbia reportedly holds over $5 billion in federal grant commitments.
A spokesperson for Columbia stated that the institution is reviewing the announcement and aims to collaborate with federal authorities to restore its federal funding. The spokesperson emphasized that the university is serious about its legal responsibilities and committed to combating antisemitism while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of its community.
This announcement from the administration represents a significant development in the ongoing repercussions related to Columbia’s handling of recent protests triggered by the conflict in Gaza. The university has faced considerable criticism, particularly from Republican lawmakers, for allegedly failing to protect Jewish students amid antisemitic incidents, many of which were reported by campus media.
Last year, the university had public disputes with pro-Palestinian demonstrators who urged the institution to divest from companies linked to Israel. Amid ongoing protests, Columbia transitioned all classes to remote learning for the remainder of the term. Subsequently, the university’s president resigned after a tumultuous year marked by these protests.
Former President Trump has been vocally critical of pro-Palestinian demonstrations at universities. Shortly after resuming office, he signed an executive order directing the Department of Justice to investigate and address antisemitic actions within leftist, anti-American educational institutions.
Columbia is among ten universities currently under investigation by the Department of Justice for allegations of failing to provide adequate protection to Jewish students and faculty members against unlawful discrimination.
