AFT President Weingarten Criticizes Trump's Higher Education Policies

Trump Administration's Antisemitism Investigations Criticized as 'Modern-Day McCarthyism'

WASHINGTON—Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), has criticized the Trump administration's recent efforts to address antisemitism in higher education. In a statement, Weingarten described these actions as a "modern-day McCarthyism," arguing that they are more about attacking educational institutions than genuinely combating hate.

Weingarten emphasized that the AFT, the largest higher education union in the country, is committed to opposing all forms of hate, including antisemitism, Islamophobia, and racism. However, she argued that the administration's actions do not reflect a sincere attempt to protect minority groups, specifically Jewish communities. Instead, she believes these measures are targeting universities and the pursuit of knowledge.

On March 10, the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights issued letters to 60 colleges under investigation for antisemitic discrimination, threatening punitive measures like withholding research funding. Weingarten described these actions as a "witch hunt," arguing they do not represent a legitimate inquiry into antisemitism on campuses.

She highlighted the AFT's November 2023 resolution, "Condemning Hate and Affirming Freedom of Speech on Campus," which underscores the importance of free and open dialogue in U.S. colleges. Weingarten criticized the administration for using antisemitism investigations to attack certain viewpoints and incite cultural conflicts.

Weingarten also expressed concern about the potential impact of withholding research funding, noting that it could harm national innovation and the economic vitality of college towns. She argued that the administration's actions could stifle creativity and economic growth.

While acknowledging that some speech can be harmful and must be addressed, Weingarten pointed to the Biden administration's efforts to counter antisemitism on college campuses as a model. She stressed that campuses should be safe spaces that promote open debate, but criticized the Trump administration’s actions as ineffective in enhancing student safety, including for Jewish students.

Weingarten also mentioned a February 14 "Dear Colleague" letter from the Department of Education, which called for suspending diversity, equity, and inclusion programs on campuses. She described this move as an attack on opportunity that has caused division among communities.

The AFT has challenged this letter in court and plans to continue opposing what it sees as attacks on students, campuses, and democracy. The union is mobilizing allies and educational institutions to join in these efforts.

The American Federation of Teachers represents 1.8 million professionals, including pre-K through 12th-grade teachers, higher education faculty, healthcare workers, and government employees, among others.

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