Today, the Department of Education (ED), the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) acknowledged Columbia University's recent measures to comply with preconditions set by the Joint Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism. This comes after a March 13th letter from the task force, which outlined nine requirements for negotiations to restore federal grants and contracts previously canceled.
Secretary of Education Linda McMahon commented on Columbia's actions: “Columbia is demonstrating appropriate cooperation with the Trump Administration’s requirements, and we look forward to a lasting resolution.” She expressed appreciation for Columbia University Interim President Katrina Armstrong's leadership in implementing reforms.
Columbia University has announced several initiatives aimed at combating anti-Semitism and maintaining its academic mission. These include reviewing admissions procedures, enforcing protest restrictions, implementing an anti-masking policy, adhering to student visa laws, reviewing regional studies programs, enforcing disciplinary policies, restructuring the University Judicial Board, expanding security personnel capabilities, and advancing their Tel Aviv Center programming.
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated: “Instead of inspiring universal condemnation, the October 7 holocaust triggered a global wave of anti-Semitism. Ivy league campuses became a greenhouse for poison,” adding that he is pleased with Columbia's steps toward reform.
The compliance with these preconditions marks an initial step in mending Columbia's relationship with both its government partners and its academic community. Josh Gruenbaum of the Federal Acquisition Service noted that while Columbia's progress is promising, continued efforts are necessary: “Columbia’s early steps are a positive sign, but they must continue to show that they are serious in their resolve to end anti-Semitism.”
Previously on March 3rd, it was announced that Columbia's federal contracts were under review due to potential violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. Consequently, approximately $400 million in federal grants were canceled due to ongoing harassment issues involving Jewish students.
Further information can be found in announcements regarding the Formation of Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism.
