UCLA Chancellor Warns Against Trump Administration’s Demands
UCLA Chancellor Julio Frenk has issued a stark warning regarding the ongoing negotiations with the Trump administration, emphasizing the need to protect the university’s autonomy in hiring practices, admissions, and academic research. This statement comes as the University of California (UC) system seeks to restore over $580 million in federal funding that was cut earlier this year due to allegations of antisemitism on campus.
During a virtual discussion hosted by Jews United for Democracy and Justice, Frenk outlined a series of non-negotiable principles that he believes must guide the negotiations. He stated that the university cannot allow the federal government to interfere with critical decisions regarding faculty hiring, student admissions, or academic curricula. “That’s the core of academic freedom,” Frenk asserted.
A recent federal ruling temporarily reinstated the funding, allowing the university to continue its operations while legal proceedings are ongoing. Despite this, the Trump administration has proposed a settlement that includes demands for significant reforms, such as eliminating scholarships based on race and ethnicity, and discontinuing faculty programs that promote diversity in hiring.
In his comments, Frenk did not directly address whether UCLA would resist these demands but reiterated that the principles governing academic freedom are clear. He noted that the university’s position aligns with existing UC policies aimed at promoting inclusion and diversity. “Our focus remains protecting students’ access to a UC education and promoting the academic freedom, excellence, and innovation that is at the core of the University’s mission,” said Rachel Zaentz, a spokesperson for UC.
Negotiations between UC officials and the Trump administration have been shrouded in secrecy, with little information disclosed about their current status. Newly appointed UC President James Milliken characterized the funding cuts as a serious threat to the university’s future, impacting not only UCLA but the broader educational landscape. “These cuts cast a dark shadow over our entire future, calling into question the viability of our institutions,” he remarked at a recent regents meeting.
Frenk also expressed a firm belief in the university’s efforts to combat antisemitism, stating that cutting funding for essential research does not effectively address the underlying issues of discrimination. He emphasized that the university is committed to demonstrating its seriousness in fighting antisemitism through dialogue and actionable measures rather than through financial penalties.
As discussions continue, the future of UCLA’s federal funding remains uncertain, with both sides navigating a complex landscape of academic principles and political demands. The outcome of these negotiations will likely have lasting implications for the university and its commitment to maintaining academic integrity and freedom.
