AAU President Barbara R. Snyder released the following statement regarding the cancellation of $400 million in federal contracts and grants to Columbia University.
All universities carry an obligation to protect the rights of all students—regardless of their faith, racial identity, or ethnic background—to ensure that they are free to fully participate in their own education. And our universities, including Columbia, take these legal obligations seriously. Our universities are committed to fighting discrimination and harassment and ensuring the safety and well-being of all their students, faculty, and staff.
It is absolutely critical to root out antisemitism and other forms of discrimination. But that is not the issue here. This unprecedented decision to cut $400 million in federal funding does nothing to end discrimination. It will, however, succeed in harming the university’s 36,000 students, including nursing students, medical students, veterans getting their college degree, students who have transferred from community colleges, and patients seeking care at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.
Today’s unprecedented decision will also harm the American people beyond Columbia’s campus by halting medical and scientific research. Actions such as this will only reduce America’s greatness in the global race for scientific and technological dominance. It is an unforced error and a gift to our potential adversaries.
Founded in 1900, the Association of American Universities is composed of America’s leading research universities. AAU’s 71 research universities transform lives through education, research, and innovation.
Our member universities earn the majority of competitively awarded federal funding for research that improves public health, seeks to address national challenges, and contributes significantly to our economic strength, while educating and training tomorrow’s visionary leaders and innovators.
AAU member universities collectively help shape policy for higher education, science, and innovation; promote best practices in undergraduate and graduate education; and strengthen the contributions of leading research universities to American society.
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