In a shocking move, the Trump administration has cut $400 million in federal grants to Columbia University, accusing the Ivy League institution of failing to protect Jewish students from antisemitism on campus. The decision, announced Friday, follows a months-long probe by a multi-agency task force.
Why It Matters
This isn’t just about funding—it’s a political earthquake shaking higher education. Columbia currently receives over $5 billion in federal grants, meaning this cut could ripple through research programs and campus operations. Critics argue the move weaponizes policy debates about free speech vs. student safety.
Timeline Breakdown
- Jan 29: Trump signs executive order targeting antisemitism
- Feb 3: Joint Task Force (Justice, Education, HHS) launches investigation
- May 3: $400M grant cancellation announced
While the affected programs haven’t been specified, the HHS statement claims Columbia showed 'continued inaction' amid harassment of Jewish students. The move comes days after Trump vowed on Truth Social to defund schools allowing 'illegal protests.'
Global Lens
Young professionals and students worldwide are watching: How universities balance activism, safety, and free speech could set precedents affecting international campuses and study-abroad programs.
Reference(s):
Trump cuts $400m in grants to Columbia over antisemitism concerns
cgtn.com