Trump Administration Finds Columbia University Indifferent to Jewish Student Harassment

The Trump administration has formally accused Columbia University of violating federal civil rights law by exhibiting deliberate indifference to harassment and antisemitism targeting Jewish students on campus since the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Education allege Columbia failed to protect Jewish students, did not enforce its own policies, neglected to investigate vandalism including swastikas, and delayed establishing effective reporting mechanisms until summer 2024. Acting Director Anthony Archeval highlighted the hostile environment endured by Jewish students, which disrupted their education and safety. Columbia University has stated its commitment to combating antisemitism and is engaged in ongoing discussions with the government to find effective solutions. The accusation coincides with broader federal scrutiny of higher education institutions, including recent actions against Harvard University. Columbia is currently negotiating with the Trump administration amid controversies over federal funding and allegations of antisemitism on campus.