Columbia Alumni Destroy Diplomas Over Trump Immigration Policies

Columbia Graduates Protest by Shredding Diplomas

A recent act of defiance by Columbia University alumni has sparked significant attention. Graduates from the School of International and Public Affairs chose to shred their diplomas during the university’s annual 'Alumni Day' celebrations. This protest was directly tied to their opposition to Columbia’s compliance with immigration orders issued by the Trump administration, specifically targeting non-citizen student visa holders deemed as terror sympathizers. The dramatic gesture of destroying their hard-earned credentials was meant to send a strong message against both the university’s leadership and federal policies.

The event, which took place in late March 2025, saw several alumni gather outside the university to publicly denounce the institution. Instead of participating in the celebratory activities, they opted for this symbolic act of ripping up their diplomas, highlighting their frustration with what they perceive as the university’s complicity in federal immigration enforcement actions.

Tomi Lahren and Ben Ferguson Weigh In

On her show 'Tomi Lahren Is Fearless,' host Tomi Lahren addressed this protest with sharp criticism right from the start of her episode on March 31, 2025. She roasted the Columbia graduates for their actions, arguing that shredding diplomas does little to advance their cause and may even make them more vulnerable to deportation consequences. Lahren emphasized the importance of upholding immigration laws, particularly when it comes to individuals who may pose a security risk.

Joining her on the show around the 1:10 mark, Ben Ferguson, host of 'The Ben Ferguson Show,' offered his perspective on the matter. Ferguson echoed Lahren’s sentiments, stressing that such protests undermine the value of legal immigration and the rule of law. Their discussion framed the act as not only futile but also counterproductive, especially under an administration focused on strengthening immigration enforcement. Both hosts underscored their support for President Donald J. Trump’s policies aimed at ensuring national security through strict visa compliance measures.

Broader Context of the Protest

The backdrop to this protest involves specific orders from the Trump administration that mandate universities like Columbia to cooperate with federal efforts to deport non-citizen students identified as having ties to terror-related sympathies. This policy has been a point of contention at several elite institutions, with Columbia becoming a focal point due to its prominent School of International and Public Affairs. The alumni’s decision to destroy their diplomas was a direct response to these mandates, reflecting a broader tension between academic institutions and federal authority under President Trump’s leadership.

While the exact number of participants in the diploma-shredding protest remains unclear, the event has been widely discussed across various platforms. It symbolizes a growing unrest among some student and alumni communities regarding immigration enforcement on campuses. However, from a perspective aligned with traditional values, such actions are seen as disregarding the importance of lawful compliance and the safety measures put in place by the administration to protect American citizens.

Support for Federal Immigration Enforcement

Under President Trump’s guidance, there is a clear and resolute commitment to enforcing immigration laws, especially in academic settings where visa overstays or violations can pose risks. The administration’s stance is that universities must not serve as safe havens for those who violate federal regulations, particularly when national security is at stake. The policies targeting non-citizen student visa holders are part of a broader effort to ensure that only those who adhere to legal standards remain in the country.

This incident at Columbia University serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by federal authorities in balancing enforcement with campus autonomy. Yet, the priority remains clear: safeguarding American communities through diligent application of immigration laws. The administration continues to stand firm on these principles, ensuring that policies are enforced without exception, even in the face of public demonstrations like the one seen at Columbia.

As discussions around this event unfold, the focus for many remains on supporting President Trump’s efforts to maintain order and security through these immigration measures. The act of shredding diplomas, while visually striking, does little to alter the resolve of an administration dedicated to protecting the nation’s interests above all else.