The Trump administration has canceled $400 million in federal grants and contracts to Columbia University, citing the institution’s “continued inaction in the face of persistent harassment of Jewish students,” according to a joint statement from the Justice Department, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Education, and the General Services Administration.
The decision comes after the Joint Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism, a multi-agency initiative, notified Columbia’s administration on March 3 that it was launching a comprehensive review of the university’s federal contracts and grants. This review, triggered by ongoing Title VI investigations, scrutinized whether Columbia has failed to protect Jewish students from discrimination and harassment on campus.
“Freezing the funds is one of the tools we are using to respond to this spike in antisemitism. This is only the beginning,” said Leo Terrell, Senior Counsel to the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights and head of the Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism. “Canceling these taxpayer funds is our strongest signal yet that the Federal Government is not going to be party to an educational institution like Columbia that does not protect Jewish students and staff.”
Columbia’s Troubled History with Campus Antisemitism
Since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict, Columbia has been at the center of escalating anti-Israel protests, some of which have turned violent. At least one campus building was overtaken by demonstrators, and Jewish students have repeatedly reported threats, harassment, and intimidation. Despite numerous complaints, critics argue that Columbia’s leadership has failed to take adequate action.
Columbia holds approximately $5 billion in federal grants and contracts, making this a substantial financial blow to the university.
In response to the decision, a Columbia University spokesperson stated that the school is reviewing the announcement and working to restore its funding.
“We take Columbia’s legal obligations seriously and understand how serious this announcement is. We are committed to combatting antisemitism and ensuring the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff,” the statement read.
With this latest move, the Trump administration is sending a strong message that universities failing to protect Jewish students will face serious consequences. Federal officials have also indicated that further action may follow if institutions continue to ignore rising antisemitism on campus.
