Civil rights, campus politics, and the DEI backlash: Columbia’s settlement in context
Columbia University has entered into a $220 million settlement with the administration of US President Donald Trump, following allegations of civil rights violations related to antisemitism on its campus. The settlement restores over $400 million in previously withdrawn federal research funding and introduces sweeping changes across academic, disciplinary, and diversity policy areas.The agreement was prompted by student protests in response to the Israel-Hamas conflict, which raised concerns about harassment and discrimination against Jewish students. The Trump administration launched a federal investigation into the university’s handling of these incidents, resulting in the financial and regulatory settlement.Settlement linked to civil rights and antisemitism complaintsAs reported by the Associated Press, Columbia will pay $200 million over three years, in addition to $21 million to settle claims brought by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) concerning discrimination against Jewish employees. The university will also incorporate a federally recognised definition of antisemitism into its disciplinary and academic policies.The settlement includes reforms such as revising student protest guidelines, enhancing campus security measures, and hiring an independent monitor to oversee implementation. Protest activities inside academic buildings have been banned, and students wearing masks during demonstrations must now identify themselves.Changes to DEI policies and curriculumAs part of the agreement, Columbia University has committed to ending programmes that promote what the White House described as “unlawful efforts to achieve race-based outcomes, quotas, diversity targets or similar efforts.” These measures follow the administration’s stance against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies that are viewed as conflicting with federal civil rights standards.The university will also review its Middle East studies curriculum to ensure a “comprehensive and balanced” approach. Columbia agreed to appoint new faculty members with expertise in Israel and Jewish studies, as confirmed in the details released by the White House and reported by the Associated Press.Actions against student protestors and visa implicationsFollowing the agreement, Columbia University announced disciplinary action against more than 70 students involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations. These included protests held inside the university’s main library and an encampment during alumni weekend. Students may face suspension, expulsion, or revocation of academic degrees.In addition, Columbia will be required to share disciplinary information about international students with federal authorities when requested. According to the Associated Press, this provision may allow the government to initiate deportation proceedings for visa holders participating in unauthorised protest activities.Official responses to settlement termsActing Columbia President Claire Shipman stated, “This agreement marks an important step forward after a period of sustained federal scrutiny and institutional uncertainty,” as reported by the Associated Press. She affirmed the university’s intention to comply with federal mandates while maintaining academic autonomy.US Education Secretary Linda McMahon described the deal as “a seismic shift in our nation’s fight to hold institutions that accept American taxpayer dollars accountable for antisemitic discrimination and harassment,” as quoted by the Associated Press.President Donald Trump said via his Truth Social platform that Columbia “committed to ending their ridiculous DEI policies, admitting students based only on merit, and protecting the Civil Liberties of their students on campus,” as reported by the Associated Press. He warned that similar actions would be taken against other higher education institutions.TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here.
