In a controversial move, Columbia University has agreed to implement a mask ban and expand campus police powers following demands from the Trump administration, which had frozen $400 million in federal funding to the Ivy League institution.
Columbia University Responds to Federal Pressure
“Freedom of expression is what enables the rigorous debate and free inquiry on which our academic mission depends,” Columbia University stated. “But demonstrations and other protest activities that occur inside academic buildings and places where academic activities take place present a direct impediment to maintaining our core academic mission.”
The policy changes come amid growing tension over pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia’s New York City campus, which intensified after the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel. The White House labeled these student-led protests as antisemitic, though demonstrators strongly rejected that characterization.
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New Rules: Mask Ban, Expanded Security, and Protest Restrictions
Effective immediately, students at Columbia will not be allowed to wear face masks on campus to conceal their identity during protests. Exceptions apply for health and religious reasons. Protesters wearing masks will be required to show university identification upon request.
A newly appointed 36-member internal security force will have the authority to remove or arrest individuals from campus grounds. Additionally, Columbia will now bar protests inside academic buildings and overhaul its disciplinary processes.
Review of Middle East Programs and New Antisemitism Measures
In a letter to the university community, interim President Katrina Armstrong announced the immediate appointment of a senior vice provost to conduct a comprehensive review of Columbia’s regional studies programs—starting with the Middle East.
Columbia will also:
- Adopt a new definition of antisemitism
- Expand faculty at the Institute for Israel and Jewish Studies
- Enhance programming at the Tel Aviv Center, Columbia’s research hub in Israel
These measures aim to foster “intellectual diversity” while addressing concerns raised by Jewish students who reported antisemitism on campus.
Columbia Seeks Reinstatement of $400 Million in Federal Funding
The sweeping changes are part of Columbia’s efforts to reinstate its frozen federal funding. The White House ordered the cuts earlier this month, citing complaints of antisemitism linked to campus protests.
The university’s response has ignited debate across academic and political circles about the growing influence of government directives on academic institutions and the potential erosion of academic freedom.
