United States: Columbia University lost $400 million from its federal funding due to poor implementation of anti-harassment measures during instances of Jewish student harassment according to a General Services Administration statement on Friday.
Federal Agencies Withdraw Support
The $5 billion of grants distributed by federal agencies Department of Justice, Department of Education and Department of Health and Human Services led to funding cuts at Columbia University, as reported by Reuters.
Campus Protests Spark Controversy
Various student-led demonstrations against United States support for Israel have often taken place at Columbia University as students voice their opposition to civilian losses and human rights situations in Gaza. Multiple protests together with their opposing demonstrations at Columbia University resulted in students facing antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents.
Justice Department Speaks Out
Leo Terrell, head of the Justice Department’s antisemitism task force, justified the funding cuts, stating:
“Canceling these taxpayer funds is our strongest signal yet that the federal government will not support an institution that fails to protect Jewish students and staff.”
Unclear Impact on University Programs
Officials have not yet specified which contracts and grants will be affected by the funding termination. Columbia has maintained that it has consistently taken action against antisemitic behavior on its campus, as reported by Reuters.