Columbia Found in Violation of Jewish Students' Rights

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights found Columbia University violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by acting with deliberate indifference toward harassment of Jewish students since October 2023. The investigation highlighted Columbia's failure to address antisemitic incidents, including vandalism and disruptions from pro-Palestinian protests, and a lack of effective reporting and remediation mechanisms. In response, Columbia has committed to combating antisemitism and working with the government to improve campus safety and policies. Previously, the Trump administration suspended over $400 million in federal grants and contracts to Columbia and threatened similar actions against other elite institutions. Columbia has stated it will continue discussions with federal authorities to address these concerns. The case underscores a broader national debate on campus antisemitism and university responses.