Fact Check: Columbia University is unlikely to uphold the terms of the agreement.

Fact Check: "Columbia University is unlikely to uphold the terms of the agreement."

What We Know

Columbia University has recently faced significant scrutiny regarding its handling of anti-Semitic harassment on campus, leading to a joint investigation by the Department of Justice (DOJ), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and Department of Education (ED). This investigation culminated in a Joint Notice of Violation issued on May 22, 2025, which highlighted potential violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The notice indicated that Columbia University might have acted with "deliberate indifference" to the hostile environment affecting Jewish students, which could constitute a violation of federal law.

As a result of these findings, the federal government announced the cancellation of approximately $400 million in federal grants and contracts to Columbia University due to its perceived inaction in addressing anti-Semitic harassment. This cancellation is part of a broader response by the Joint Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism, which aims to ensure that universities comply with federal anti-discrimination laws.

Moreover, Columbia University has been in discussions with the Trump administration regarding potential terms to restore funding. Reports suggest that there are doubts about Columbia's ability to meet the terms of any agreement, with some sources indicating that the university may not genuinely want to implement the required changes (source-8).

Analysis

The claim that "Columbia University is unlikely to uphold the terms of the agreement" is supported by several factors. The Joint Notice of Violation indicates that the university has not adequately addressed the issues of harassment, which raises concerns about its commitment to compliance with federal regulations (source-1). Furthermore, the cancellation of federal funding is a strong signal from the federal government that it expects substantial changes in Columbia's policies and practices regarding anti-Semitism and discrimination.

However, the reliability of the sources reporting on Columbia's potential inability to uphold the agreement varies. While the Joint Notice of Violation and the announcement of funding cancellations (source-2) are official government documents, some claims about Columbia's intentions come from less formal sources, such as internal discussions and opinions from unnamed officials (source-8). This raises questions about the accuracy and objectivity of those assessments.

The university's past actions, including its recent agreement to implement policy changes under pressure from the federal government (source-6), suggest a willingness to negotiate but also highlight a history of inaction that could undermine confidence in its commitment to follow through on any new agreements.

Conclusion

The claim that "Columbia University is unlikely to uphold the terms of the agreement" is Partially True. While there are credible concerns regarding the university's past actions and its current ability to meet federal expectations, the situation is still evolving. Columbia has shown some willingness to engage with federal authorities and implement changes, but skepticism remains about its genuine commitment to these reforms. The university's history of inaction, combined with the federal government's strong stance, supports the notion that while there is potential for compliance, significant doubts persist.

Fact Check: Columbia University is unlikely to uphold the terms of the agreement.