The Education Department made a significant move on Wednesday by informing Columbia University’s accreditor that the institution is falling short of standards. The issue arose due to the failure to safeguard Jewish students from harassment.
Concerns Raised
The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) of the department notified the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the accrediting body for Columbia University, about the violation of federal anti-discrimination laws. Consequently, the institution is deemed non-compliant with the commission’s accreditation criteria.
Education Secretary’s Remarks
Linda McMahon, the Education Secretary, expressed deep concern over Columbia’s leadership’s alleged indifference to the harassment faced by Jewish students on campus. McMahon urged the accrediting body to take necessary actions to ensure Columbia’s adherence to accreditation standards.
Government’s Stance
This development occurs amidst the Trump administration’s heightened scrutiny of elite universities regarding responses to antisemitism, diversity, equity, and inclusion policies. Columbia University, known for its history of student activism, has been under federal investigation following the 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel.
Investigations by the Departments of Education and Health and Human Services revealed violations of Title VI, a federal civil rights law prohibiting discrimination based on race, national origin, or shared ancestry.
