WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch
Columbia's Latest Anti-Israel Disruption, as Trump Threatens to Tax Harvard
May 9, 2025
Columbia University faces turmoil as anti-Israel protests lead to police intervention and numerous arrests. President Trump heightens tensions by threatening Harvard’s tax exemption in light of its actions. The podcast delves into the impact of these events on civil rights, academic freedom, and funding for institutions. Discussions include Harvard's decision to forgo federal funding to navigate compliance issues and broader implications for university tax statuses as advocates push for reform in higher education.
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Quick takeaways
- Columbia University's recent response to anti-Israel protests demonstrates a significant shift towards a more assertive administration amidst external pressures from the Trump administration.
- The debate over Harvard's tax-exempt status raises complex legal and ethical questions about federal oversight, highlighting the need for clearer Congressional guidelines.
Deep dives
Columbia University's Response to Protests
Columbia University's recent handling of anti-Israel protests marks a significant change in its administrative response. Following protesters' disruption in Butler Library, which led to about 80 arrests, the administration called in police to manage the situation, resulting in numerous interim student suspensions. Acting president Claire Shipman condemned the violence and vandalism that occurred, emphasizing that such actions contradict Columbia's values. This shift indicates a more assertive stance towards maintaining campus order and addressing anti-Semitism, likely influenced by external pressures from federal entities, including the Trump administration.
