Columbia removes undocumented immigrant admissions guidance webpage

Columbia University has removed a webpage that provided guidance for undocumented applicants seeking admission. This change comes amid increased pressure from the Trump administration, which has been critical of both Palestinian and immigrant rights. The webpage had previously outlined how undocumented students could apply and access financial aid. It emphasized Columbia's commitment to diversity and support for all applicants. However, the link to the page now shows an "access denied" message, raising concerns about whether this removal was intentional. Columbia has faced backlash for its responses to federal pressures, including a recent investigation by the Department of Justice regarding the university's treatment of undocumented students. This follows the detention of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian student activist and permanent resident, without any charges. The Trump administration has also threatened Columbia with $400 million in federal grant cuts. Reports indicate that the university is considering new policies to satisfy these demands, which include increasing campus policing and putting certain academic departments under external control. Columbia's approach has drawn criticism as it appears to suppress student activism while facing federal scrutiny. Khalil has accused the university of enabling his detention through its disciplinary actions against pro-Palestinian students. He believes Columbia has surrendered to federal demands, compromising the rights of its student body.