Israeli Columbia professor wants Trump to block certain institutions from receiving federal funding
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Universities and colleges across the US have seen a surge in antisemitic and anti-Israel activity following the brutal attacks by Hamas on October 7. This rise in anti-Israel sentiment has not only been seen among students, but also among faculty members. Columbia Business School associate professor Shai Davidai has called on President Donald Trump to issue an executive order to prevent institutions that hire professors who support US-designated terror organizations from receiving federal funds.
In a post from the account Documenting Jew Hatred on Campus at Columbia University, Davidai urged President Trump to take action. “I think it’s time for the president to sign a very simple executive order: no federal funds to private institutions that hire professors who support U.S.-designated terrorist organizations,” Davidai wrote.
Davidai believes that Columbia University is in violation of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and should not receive federal funding due to the hiring and promotion of faculty members who support terror groups. “For the past 15 months, we have seen open support for the annihilation of the State of Israel,” Davidai stated. “Not just criticism of the government of Israel, but the existence of Israel and Israelis on university campuses by both students and professors.”
He emphasized that this issue is not just about Israel, but also about America. The rhetoric used by the anti-Israel agitators often mirrors that of the Iran Revolutionary Guard Corps, viewing Israel as the “little Satan” and America as the “big Satan.” “This is anti-Americanism. They hate America, and they say so, it’s not me putting words in their mouths,” Davidai added.
Columbia University has become a hub of anti-Israel and antisemitic activity, drawing national attention following the attacks on October 7. Despite a change in university leadership, anti-Israel agitators continue to be active on campus. Last week, protesters disrupted a course on the Modern History of Israel taught by visiting professor Avi Shilon from Israel’s Tel-Hai Academic College.
The disruptions have been condemned by interim President Katrina Armstrong, who stated, “No group of students has a right to disrupt another group of students in a Columbia classroom. Disrupting academic activities constitutes a violation of the Rules of University conduct and the nature of the disruption may constitute violations of other University policies.”
The university has pledged to investigate and address these acts of antisemitism and discrimination. It is clear that any form of discrimination, harassment, or intimidation against members of the community will not be tolerated.
In conclusion, it is evident that the rise in anti-Israel and antisemitic activity on college campuses is a significant issue that needs to be addressed. By taking action and condemning these acts, universities can create a safe and inclusive environment for all students and faculty members.