Columbia Faculty Organize Emergency Vigil Amid Trump Administration Demands

Columbia University professors held an “emergency vigil” following the school’s agreement to policy changes demanded by the Trump administration. Activists protested at the university, expressing grievances about freedoms and recent actions against anti-Israel sentiments. U.S. Education Secretary indicated that Columbia is on the path to reclaim federal funding with the university’s commitment to reforms.

On Monday afternoon, a group of activists marched around the main gate of Columbia University, chanting slogans such as “Long live the intifada” and playing drums. This demonstration followed an “emergency vigil” held by the university’s faculty in response to the administration’s agreement to implement policy changes, including revisions to protest regulations and a review of the Middle Eastern studies department, prompted by the Trump administration’s demands.

The protesters gathered outside Columbia’s gates on 116th Street and Amsterdam Avenue, displaying signs that stated, “defend democracy,” “defend teaching,” and “Columbia, fight back.” While the recent arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a notable anti-Israel activist, was referenced, demonstrators aimed to communicate a broader range of grievances against the university.

Risa L. Lieberwitz, a professor at Cornell University, criticized the Trump administration’s actions, stating, “Now, the Trump administration is attacking Columbia as a target to coerce other universities to fall in line with the authoritarian regime of the Trump administration.” She further expressed concern for an international graduate student facing federal immigration issues.

Protesters utilized social media to encourage fellow students and faculty to refrain from attending classes, while also advocating for the wearing of masks as a form of protest against the mask ban. This mobilization followed the recent withdrawal of $400 million in funding by the Trump administration, which demanded policy reforms from the university after protests against Israel’s military actions in Gaza.

U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon recently stated that Columbia University is making progress in reclaiming federal funding after agreeing to several policy alterations. She indicated that there have been positive discussions with Columbia’s interim president, Katrina Armstrong, who announced significant oversight changes in the Middle East studies department and modifications to the university’s protest and student discipline policies. These changes also include adopting a new definition of antisemitism and increasing “intellectual diversity” at the university.

McMahon highlighted Armstrong’s commitment to ensuring the safety of students on campus and addressing any discriminatory practices, emphasizing the university’s responsibility to tackle identified systemic issues related to antisemitism.

In summary, Columbia University is currently facing significant pressures from the Trump administration to revise its policies following the withdrawal of federal funding. Faculty members have organized vigils and protests to voice their opposition to these changes. There is broad support among faculty and students for defending academic freedom and opposing perceived attacks from the administration. The university aims to implement reforms in response to these demands, coupled with concerns over discrimination and safety on campus.

Original Source: www.foxnews.com