Consider This from NPR What's behind Trump's crackdown on universities — and why it matters
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May 30, 2025 The Trump administration's controversial policies have created chaos in universities, targeting funding and scrutinizing international students. A stark divide emerges between elite institutions and community colleges amidst federal pressures. The conversation draws parallels to the McCarthy era, highlighting the emotional toll on students and the impact on academic freedom. Negotiations over compliance with new laws, like affirmative action bans, reveal the political tensions shaping education today. The implications of these policies stretch far beyond the classroom, affecting the entire educational landscape.
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Impact of Research Grant Cuts
- The Trump administration cut over $10 billion in research grants, impacting future innovation in medicine and technology.
- Research funding from universities like MIT has historically led to major technological advances like the iPhone.
Student Fear of Detention
- A graduate student at Columbia lives in fear of detention due to visa and activism issues under the Trump administration.
- She emotionally prepares herself for potential detention when leaving her house, evidencing widespread fear among international students.
Threat to Academic Freedom
- Administration demands government oversight of college departments, threatening academic freedom.
- Federal funding cuts and restrictive policies on foreign students undermine research and impose political control.