High Country Times

WASHINGTON – Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (R-NC) addressed Columbia University leaders at a hearing titled "Columbia in Crisis: Columbia University's Response to Antisemitism" on April 17, 2024.

Foxx began by expressing concern over the rise of antisemitism on college campuses, stating, "Since October 7, this Committee and the nation have watched in horror as so many of our college campuses, particularly the most expensive, so-called elite schools, have erupted into hotbeds of antisemitism and hate."

She directly addressed Columbia University representatives, accusing the institution of gross negligence and potentially becoming a platform for supporting terrorism against the Jewish people. Foxx highlighted specific incidents on campus, including attacks on Jewish students and the hosting of events featuring speakers linked to terrorist organizations.

Referring to a statement made by Columbia undergraduate Eden Yadegar, Foxx emphasized the pervasive nature of antisemitism at the university, stating, "It is impossible to exist as a Jewish student at Columbia without running face first into antisemitism every single day."

Foxx stressed the urgency of addressing antisemitism on campus, citing both moral and legal obligations under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. She underlined the importance of protecting Jewish students and ensuring that antisemitism has no place in American universities.

In conclusion, Foxx called for accountability from Columbia University leaders, emphasizing the need to draw clear boundaries against antisemitism. She highlighted the significance of addressing this issue as a fundamental moral concern of our time, stating, "Antisemitism must have no safe harbor in American universities."