Democratic Rep. Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey has called on Columbia University's president, Minouche Shafik, to take more decisive action in response to the ongoing protests at the school. Gottheimer emphasized that while he believes Shafik should act, the decision on whether she should resign ultimately lies with the board of trustees.
Gottheimer stressed the importance of tangible actions over mere words, stating, 'Now it's time for action, not just words.' He highlighted the significance of this moment for university presidents nationwide, urging them to step up and prioritize the safety and well-being of all students.
Expressing concern over the current situation at Columbia University, Gottheimer criticized the notion of students having to attend hybrid classes or stay home to feel safe, deeming it unacceptable. He underscored the legal obligation of universities to protect all students under Title VI and called for immediate action to address any safety concerns.
When asked about sending his own children to Columbia University given the current environment, Gottheimer admitted he would be very concerned, reflecting the gravity of the situation.
Furthermore, Gottheimer advocated for Title VI investigations in similar circumstances to ensure the protection and well-being of students. He joined other lawmakers in a show of solidarity with Jewish students at Columbia University by walking across the campus on Monday.
