Students at New York University disrupted a University Senate meeting on November 13, demanding that the school become a “sanctuary campus” and continue race-based scholarships. The demonstration, organized by the NYU chapter of Students for a Democratic Society (SDS), called for the university to sever ties with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), protect transgender services, and reject the federal government’s efforts to reform higher education under President Trump’s Compact for Academic Excellence.
The protest took place inside NYU’s Kimmel Center, where students chanted slogans such as “No compliance, no wall, sanctuary for all” and “Education is a right, not just for the rich and white.” The group delivered a list of demands, including expanded race-based scholarships, increased Black student enrollment, funding for identity-based student groups, and protections for undocumented students. Protesters also insisted that NYU defy federal immigration law and refuse to cooperate with ICE in any capacity.
One of the protest’s central grievances was the university’s response to the Compact for Academic Excellence, introduced by the Trump administration. The compact offers federal support to universities that reject ideological programs rooted in identity politics and return to traditional academic principles. The students accused NYU of aligning with this policy and demanded the university reject it publicly.
Demonstrators called on the university to guarantee access to gender-affirming care and safe spaces for transgender students. The list of demands also included increased funding for cultural centers and programs based on race, gender identity, and immigration status. SDS’s statement accused NYU of “compliance with the right-wing Trump compact” and vowed to continue pressure until their demands are met.
The protest reflects a broader trend across higher education where activist groups push for institutional policies based on race, identity, and political ideology. Critics argue that these demands undermine equal treatment, academic merit, and lawful cooperation with federal agencies. The growing divide between traditional educational values and activist agendas has become a defining issue in university governance and public accountability.
