NEW DELHI: In his first week back in office, newly inaugurated President Donald Trump outlined a sweeping crackdown on antisemitism in U.S. colleges, promising to hold educational institutions accountable for any actions or rhetoric that contribute to hostility toward Jewish students. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump issued a stern warning to university leaders.
TRUMP: โMy first week back in the Oval Office, my administration will inform every college president that, if you do not end antisemitic propaganda, they will lose their accreditation and federal taxpayer supportโฆ Next, I will inform every educational institution in our landโฆ pic.twitter.com/mUXbpV8IPI
โ Awesome Jew (@JewsAreTheGOAT) November 15, 2024
โMy first week back in the Oval Office, my administration will inform every college president that, if you do not end antisemitic propaganda, you will lose your accreditation and federal taxpayer support,โ Trump declared. โThis is not a choiceโend the hate or face the consequences. We will take decisive action against any institution that allows such toxic behaviour to continue unchecked.โ
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The presidentโs comments were a direct response to increasing reports of antisemitism and violence directed at Jewish students on campuses nationwide. Trump emphasized the need for strong, immediate action: โWe will not tolerate the spread of hatred against Jewish students, or any group, on our campuses. Our universities must be places of learning, not battlegrounds for hate.โ
Trumpโs plan not only targets antisemitic propaganda but also focuses on safeguarding Jewish students from physical harm or threats. โNext, I will inform every educational institution in our land that, if they permit violence, harassment, or threats against Jewish students, the schools will be held accountable for violations of civil rights law,โ Trump stated. โOur country will not stand by while students are intimidated, harassed, or assaulted based on their identity. Thatโs a violation of their fundamental rights, and we will hold schools accountable.โ
The presidentโs directive received backing from Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, who expressed her commitment to strengthening protections for all students. โThis is about making sure that every student feels safe and respected on campus. Antisemitism has no place in our schools,โ DeVos said. โOur schools must uphold the principles of equality and freedom, and we will ensure that federal funding is tied to these standards.โ
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Trumpโs plan also included a broader call to action on university diversity programs. โWe need institutions of higher learning that foster unity, not division,โ Trump said. โItโs time to put an end to divisive practices and policies that contribute to hate. We will support universities that prioritize the safety and well-being of all students, regardless of background.โ
Trump concluded, โWe will not rest until every American, especially our Jewish community, feels safe and respected. This is my promise to you. Itโs time to make our campuses safe again.โ
