Columbia University said it is “fully committed to fighting anti-Semitism” after three federal agencies announced they would consider school contracts and grants after they failed to protect Jewish students during on-campus protests against Israel.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Department of Education (DOE) and the U.S. General Services Agency (GSA) said they will conduct a review on Monday.
Columbia University said it plans to review the communications in response to the announcement and is looking forward to fighting the Trump administration and anti-Semitism.
“Colombia is fully committed to combating anti-Semitism and all forms of discrimination, and we embrace, promote and praise our university for seeking, promoting or admiring violence and fear,” the university said. “We look forward to continuing work with the new federal government to combat anti-Semitism and will continue to make every effort to ensure the safety and welfare of our students, faculty and staff.”
Anti-Israeli protesters are allegedly assaulting employees during construction of a takeover at Bernard University in New York City
Anti-Israel agitators gathered on the Columbia University campus in New York City on Monday, April 22, 2024. The university announced that all classes will be virtually held today in response to ongoing demonstrations on campus. (Peter Gerber)
The news comes after the Senate confirmed that President Donald Trump has approved the selection of Education Secretary for Linda McMahon.
McMahon also said it will focus on campus' anti-Semitism and DEI initiatives.
“Americans have been watching in horror for over a year as Jewish students are being assaulted and harassed on elite university campuses. The illegal camps and demonstrations have completely paralyzed daily campus operations and completely paralyzed Jewish students for taking away the opportunities they are being administered,” McMahon's statement read.
McMahon was confirmed by the Senate on Monday and served as the next Secretary of Education. (Getty Images)
She said the learning institution has a responsibility to protect all students, especially those receiving federal funds.
“The failure to adhere to the end of this basic agreement in Colombia raises very serious questions about the fitness of agencies to continue their business with the US government,” she said.
The GSA will facilitate review of federal funds received by Columbia, including federal government-wide grants and contract reviews.
“The GSA remains committed to maintaining federal acquisition standards and ensuring that government contracts reflect the values of our nation, including the fight against anti-Semitism (sic),” said Josh Gruenbaum, a Federal Acquisition Services Commissioner and Task Force member. “This partnership will work across the government to end the anti-Semitic culture (SICS) in higher education institutions. All agencies will notify us that they will not be tolerated in accordance with President Trump's executive order.”
After winning the final Senate match, Lead Education Department from WWE's Legendary Education Bureau
The “Free Palestine” flag is displayed inside the Bernard University building in New York. (X/Colombian Jews and Israeli students)
Click here to get the Fox News app
Colombian students occupied the Bernard University building last week in protest of two students who were exiled after thwarting Israel's history class by targeting Jewish students with anti-Semite flyers.
During the protest, they allegedly attacked security guards and sent them to hospitals, causing more than $30,000 in damage to the school.
