Columbia University has announced significant policy changes, including a mask ban and enhanced campus security measures, in response to the Trump administration’s decision to freeze $400 million in federal funding.
Stricter Protest Regulations and Security Measures
In an official statement, the university emphasized the importance of free expression while maintaining academic integrity. It declared that protests inside academic buildings would no longer be permitted, and students would be prohibited from wearing masks to conceal their identity, except for health or religious reasons.
To enforce these new regulations, Columbia is deploying a 36-member internal security team with the authority to remove or arrest individuals on campus.
Reevaluating Regional Studies Programs
Interim President Katrina Armstrong announced that the university would conduct a comprehensive review of its regional studies programs, beginning with Middle Eastern studies. Additionally, Columbia plans to introduce new faculty appointments to its Institute for Israel and Jewish Studies and expand its Tel Aviv Center in Israel.
Federal Funding and Government Influence
These changes come after the Trump administration ordered funding cuts earlier this month, citing allegations of antisemitism linked to pro-Palestinian protests on campus. While the White House labeled these protests as antisemitic, many participants have denied this characterization. Columbia’s new policies aim to address government concerns and restore federal funding.
