Trump Education Dept launches probe into ‘explosion of antisemitism’ at 5 universities
The Education Department (DoEd) has launched a new investigation into five institutions of higher education following reports of alleged antisemitism in the aftermath of the 2023 deadly terrorist attack in Israel. The terrorist group Hamas orchestrated an attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, which sparked an ongoing Israeli military response. This response, in turn, led to anti-Israel protests erupting on college campuses across the United States. Some protests were allowed to continue unchecked, with Columbia University even canceling its main commencement ceremony due to safety concerns.
Two weeks into his presidency, Donald Trump’s DoEd is now accusing the Biden administration of not doing enough to address the reports of antisemitic harassment on campuses. As a result, the DoEd has initiated a federal probe into five universities that have been identified as having widespread reports of antisemitic harassment. These universities include Columbia University, Northwestern University, Portland State University, the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities.
Craig Trainor, the acting assistant secretary for civil rights at the DoEd, stated, “Too many universities have tolerated widespread antisemitic harassment and the illegal encampments that paralyzed campus life last year, driving Jewish life and religious expression underground. The Biden Administration’s toothless resolution agreements did shamefully little to hold those institutions accountable.” He emphasized that the DoEd will not tolerate institutional indifference to the wellbeing of Jewish students on American campuses.
Following the announcement of the investigation, Northwestern University, Portland State University, and the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities have all expressed their willingness to cooperate. Jon Yates, vice president of global marketing and communications at Northwestern University, affirmed that there is no place for antisemitism or any form of discrimination on their campus. Portland State University also reiterated its commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all community members, while the University of Minnesota stated that they are confident in their approach to combating hate and bias.
Columbia University, however, did not respond to requests for comment at the time of publication. The university had previously been questioned by the Committee on Energy and Commerce and the Committee on Education and the Workforce regarding the safety of all its members as a recipient of funding through Department of Health and Human Services grants.
It is important for universities to address and combat antisemitism and all forms of discrimination on their campuses. The DoEd’s investigation serves as a reminder that maintaining a safe and inclusive environment for all students is crucial. As the investigation unfolds, it is essential for universities to fully cooperate and take the necessary steps to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all their community members.
