Columbia University Faces Backlash Over Disciplinary Actions Targeting Pro-Palestinian Activists

Critics accuse Columbia of suppressing free speech under pressure from federal funding threats and political scrutiny.

Columbia University’s Office of Institutional Equity has launched investigations into students for activities such as pro-Palestinian protests, social media posts, and op-eds critical of Israel.
Senior Maryam Alwan is among those accused of harassment for writing an op-ed advocating for divestment from Israel, with potential sanctions ranging from warnings to expulsion.
The disciplinary actions follow federal threats to cut $51 million in contracts and additional grants, citing alleged inaction against antisemitic harassment on campus.
Students and free speech advocates claim the measures are politically motivated, citing former President Trump’s pressure to suppress pro-Palestinian activism and deport student protesters.
Jewish students have reported both receiving disciplinary notices for pro-Palestinian activism and experiencing antisemitism at protests, reflecting a complex and contentious campus climate.