Columbia administrators reportedly covertly changed the university's event policies just before suspending pro-Palestine student groups

Nov 18, 2023 ·

A new report from the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education (FIRE) has revealed that Columbia University changed its policies related to student organizations before suspending several pro-Palestine groups. The report found that the university implemented a policy change in March 2021 that allowed it to punish students and student organizations that engage in “disruptive activity” or “hosting of events” that are “inconsistent with the university’s values.”

The FIRE report also highlighted the case of Columbia University Students for Justice in Palestine (CUSJP). CUSJP is one of the groups that was suspended by the university for allegedly hosting an event on campus that violated the university's rules. After the suspension, CUSJP members stated that the university had unfairly targeted them for their pro-Palestine advocacy and had failed to provide due process.

The FIRE report found that the changes made to the policy were not well publicized and did not provide enough clarity about what activities would be considered disruptive. This lack of clarity has led to confusion among student groups about what is and isn’t allowed. Furthermore, the report highlighted the fact that the policy does not provide clear guidance on how the university should interpret the phrase “inconsistent with the university’s values.”

The report called on Columbia University to clarify its policies and provide transparent and accessible guidelines on what types of activities would be subject to punishment. The report also criticized the university for failing to provide due process to student groups facing potential discipline.

Overall, the report raises serious concerns about the lack of transparency and due process at Columbia University. It is unclear whether the policy changes were necessary or appropriate and whether they have been applied fairly. The report also demonstrates the need for more robust protection of freedom of expression and assembly on college campuses.