Columbia University is under federal investigation following allegations from two janitors who claim they were unlawfully compelled to remove swastikas spray-painted on campus and subsequently attacked by an anti-Israel mob during the takeover of Hamilton Hall last spring. The janitors have filed complaints under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, alleging retaliatory harassment for reporting antisemitic and racist conduct. 

The incident in question occurred in April 2024, when anti-Israel protesters occupied Hamilton Hall, an academic building at Columbia University. During this occupation, the janitors were reportedly assaulted and briefly trapped by the demonstrators. The janitors also allege that prior to this event, they were forced to clean swastikas and other offensive graffiti from campus facilities, actions they believe led to further harassment when reported.

In response to these events, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has launched a probe into Columbia University’s handling of the situation. The investigation aims to determine whether the university failed to protect its employees from a hostile work environment and retaliatory actions. 

This investigation is part of a broader scrutiny of Columbia University’s response to antisemitic incidents on campus. The university has faced criticism for its handling of such events, leading to federal investigations and financial repercussions. Notably, the Trump administration recently revoked over $400 million in federal grants to Columbia, citing the university’s inadequate response to antisemitism and failure to protect Jewish students. 

In light of these developments, Columbia University announced disciplinary actions against students involved in the Hamilton Hall occupation. The university stated that some students have been expelled, while others face multi-year suspensions or temporary degree revocations. These measures are part of Columbia’s efforts to enforce university policies and address the concerns raised by the recent incidents.