Dear members of the Columbia community:
Last night, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Education, under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, announced that they had determined that Columbia had violated Title VI in connection with our actions in response to harassment of Jewish students since October 7, 2023.
I want our community to understand the facts regarding this finding. The announcement is part of the ongoing Title VI investigations into the University. The finding is part of the process to resolve these investigations and seek a restoration of our vital research funding. While we disagree with the government’s conclusion, we are continuing to engage in a thoughtful and constructive manner in addressing these serious issues. It is not a signal that we are no longer working to resolve the issues with regard to our critical and long-standing partnership with the federal government.
To be clear: Columbia must be a place where everyone feels safe, supported, and respected. The toll antisemitism has taken on individuals in our community is something I’ve witnessed personally, and it is devastating.
We are deeply devoted to combatting antisemitism and all forms of hate on our campus. This has included increasing security near Jewish student spaces, expanding support services, streamlining disciplinary processes to respond swiftly to violations of our Rules of University Conduct, and creating opportunities for open, respectful engagement among different points of view. More detail about our efforts can be found here.
Our mission, as an educational institution, must begin with a recommitment to respect, empathy, and understanding. Freedom of expression and academic inquiry are also essential to university life. But when speech or conduct becomes hateful, discriminatory, or threatening, we will act firmly and in accordance with our values and our policies. As we move forward in our discussions with the government, we will continue to explore all strategies as we do the important work of addressing these serious issues.
We know we can do better, and we will.
Sincerely,
Claire Shipman
Acting President, Columbia University in the City of New York
