The Trump administration announced on Friday (March 7) that it is cutting $400 million in federal grants to Columbia University, citing the school's alleged failure to address ongoing harassment of Jewish students.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon explained the decision in a statement, saying:
"Since October 7, Jewish students have faced relentless violence, intimidation, and antisemitic harassment on their campuses — only to be ignored by those who are supposed to protect them. Universities must comply with all federal antidiscrimination laws if they are going to receive federal funding. For too long, Columbia has abandoned that obligation to Jewish students studying on its campus. Today, we demonstrate to Columbia and other universities that we will not tolerate their appalling inaction any longer."
In response, a Columbia University spokesperson stated that the institution is committed to addressing concerns and working with the federal government to restore its funding.
"We are reviewing the announcement from the federal agencies and pledge to work with the federal government to restore Columbia’s federal funding. We take Columbia’s legal obligations seriously and understand how serious this announcement is. We remain committed to combating antisemitism and ensuring the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff."
The Department of Education initially launched investigations into Columbia and six other colleges in 2023 for potential violations of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. A subsequent investigation was later opened into allegations of anti-Palestinian discrimination at the university.
Leo Terrell, Senior Counsel to the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights and the head of the Justice Department’s Task Force to Combat Antisemitism, signaled that further action may follow, stating, "This is only the beginning."
Source: NBC News
