Columbia University to comply with Trump administration demands for mask ban, special officers, more
Columbia University announces new mask bans, hiring special officials and other new policies, some of which are related to Trump administration’s demands.
Thursday Mark Trump administration’s deadline for Colombia Comply with its requirements list before discussion Federal government mobilizes $400 million Because the school failed to protect students from anti-Semitism.
“Our response to government agencies outlines the substantive work we did in the last academic year to improve our mission, ensure uninterrupted academic activities and keep every student, faculty and staff safe and welcoming on our campus, interim chair Katrina Armstrong wrote in an email to students on Friday.”
Masks are banned, police officer announced
One of the new policies is a mask or cover-up designed to cover up a personal identity. However, the policy says: “For religious or medical reasons, face coverings or face coverings are always allowed.”
Additionally, anyone participating in a campus protest or demonstration must introduce their university ID if requested by a university representative or public safety official.
The school also hired 36 new special officials who had the ability to evacuate people from campus or arrest them when needed.
“Under New York law, these people are close to completing training and certificates to work on our campus,” the policy says. “When we train and prove our internal security forces, we will continue to rely on our relationship with the New York Police Department to provide additional security assistance when needed.”
Disciplinary procedures have also changed, including relocation of the University Judicial Committee within the terms of reference of the Presidential Office. There is also a new office of institutional rights, with 57 full-time staff members coming to investigate discrimination complaints.
Reviewed academic and admission policies
The university will also appoint a new senior vice provost to review educational programs related to Middle East research. Armstrong said the review will work to ensure that education products are comprehensive and balanced.
Colombia will also review its admission procedures and make recommendations on how to ensure a fair admission procedure.
The interim chair said the office will take an institutional neutral position and will establish institutional policies to implement that position within scope.
Students respond to the new policy
It is unclear whether the Trump administration will now restore $400 million in federal grants and funds.
Although Colombia wants to pay back the money, some students ask, how much does it cost?
“It’s never been a place for government to really do these things,” said student Yousif Elhaj.
“I honestly think it’s a bit shameful,” said student Landon Pottebaum. “Because Columbia has such a long reputation, a long history in protest schools and has not wavered in the face of federal action and allowing students to act on their own, I think it’s just an honest coward.”
The Ministry of Education said in the letter that complying with their requirements is a prerequisite for discussing the financial relationship between the school and the federal government.
