House Republican lawmakers are urging major Columbia University donors who are outraged at the anti-Israel protests on campus to speak out with their wallets. The lawmakers have written an open letter to the university's alumni and donor network, calling for condemnations of the antisemitic incidents and demanding changes in leadership, including the resignation of Columbia University President Minouche Shafik.
Recent protests at Columbia and Barnard College have sparked controversy due to the universities' investments in companies with ties to Israel. The demonstrations have faced bipartisan backlash and accusations of antisemitism, with reports of activists cheering on the deaths of Israeli soldiers and showing support for Hamas. Jewish students have expressed feeling unsafe on campus, citing incidents of verbal and physical assault.
The House GOP lawmakers are encouraging donors to follow the example of billionaire Robert Kraft, who withdrew his support in response to the protests. They are also calling for a thorough review of school funding and an investigation into outside influences on student participation in disruptive and violent incidents targeting Jewish students.
Speaker Mike Johnson and other lawmakers have denounced the protests and reiterated calls for President Shafik's resignation. They emphasize the need for order and safety on campus, pledging congressional support for Jewish students facing intimidation and fear.
