News | March 18th, 2025
Federal Threats to University Funding Over Campus Protests Raise Concerns Among College Students
By: Jayda Nelms | Staff Writer
In recent developments, President Donald Trump has threatened to withdraw federal funding from universities that permit what he describes as “illegal protests.” This move has sparked concerns among college students about free speech and the future of student activism.
Federal Funding and Free Speech
President Donald Trump’s administration has taken a firm stance against campus protests and have deemed them unlawful. In a recent statement, Trump declared, “All Federal Funding will STOP for any College, School, or University that allows illegal protests,” the US president wrote on Truth Social.
“Agitators will be imprisoned/or permanently sent back to the country from which they came. American students will be permanently expelled or, depending on on [sic] the crime, arrested. NO MASKS! Thank you for your attention to this matter.” This policy has raised alarms about the potential suppression of free speech on college campuses.
Critics argue that these measures contradict Trump’s earlier promises to protect free speech. During his second term, actions such as threatening investigations against political opponents and withdrawing federal grants with undesired language have raised significant concerns among First Amendment advocates.
Read more about what critics are saying here
Impact on Student Activism
Students at various universities are particularly concerned about how these federal threats might affect their activism. Many institutions have a rich history of student-led protests advocating for civil rights and social justice.
Peyton Cook, a senior, expressed apprehension about the administration’s stance.
“Our right to protest is important, especially in addressing issues that directly impact us,” Cook said. “The threat of losing federal funding feels like his way of trying to shut everyone up.”
In recent years, students have actively participated in demonstrations addressing police brutality, voting rights, and educational reforms. The possibility of federal funding cuts poses a significant challenge, as many students rely on federally funded programs and financial aid.
Broader Implications for Universities
The Trump administration’s actions have already impacted several universities. Columbia University, for instance, faced the withdrawal of $400 million in federal funding due to alleged antisemitic harassment and refusal to assist in identifying individuals on campus for arrest.
Read more about how Colombia University is ‘refusing to help’ identify people for arrest
Additionally, the University of Washington and 59 other institutions received warnings about potential funding losses if they do not better protect Jewish students from discrimination.
These measures have led to concerns about the future handling of cases related to racial and religious bias, disabilities, and sexual violence in schools, especially after significant layoffs in the Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights.
Federal Funding at Risk
- Columbia University: Faced withdrawal of $400 million in federal funding due to alleged antisemitic harassment and refusal to assist in identifying individuals on campus for arrest.
- University of Washington: Among 59 institutions warned about potential funding losses if they do not better protect Jewish students from discrimination.
Government Response
Education Secretary Linda McMahon expressed disappointment over the continued fear for safety among Jewish students on elite U.S. campuses. She stated, “It is unacceptable that in 2025, Jewish students still feel unsafe and unsupported in our nation’s top universities.”
Looking Ahead
As universities navigate these federal threats, the balance between maintaining funding and protecting students’ rights to free speech remains delicate. Institutions must assess the potential risks and develop strategies to support student activism while ensuring compliance with federal regulations.
The broader academic community continues to debate the implications of the administration’s policies. While some argue that certain protests may cross the line into unlawful activities, others emphasize the importance of preserving spaces for dissent and dialogue in higher education.
President Trump’s threats to withdraw federal funding over campus protests have ignited a critical conversation about free speech, student activism, and the role of universities in fostering open discourse. As the situation evolves, institutions and students alike must navigate these challenges to uphold the principles of academic freedom and civic engagement.
Read more about what free speech looks like under Trump
