Columbia Professor Katherine Franke Says She Was Forced to Retire Because of Activism

Columbia University Professor Katherine Franke recently announced that she was forced to retire due to her activism, sparking outrage and concern among fellow faculty members and students.

Franke, who has been a prominent figure in the fields of law, gender studies, and social justice, has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ rights, racial justice, and women’s rights throughout her career. She has been a vocal critic of the Trump administration’s policies and has been actively involved in various social justice movements, including the Black Lives Matter movement and the #MeToo movement.

In a statement released by Franke, she expressed her disappointment and frustration at being forced to retire, stating that she believes her activism played a significant role in the university’s decision. She also noted that Columbia’s administration had been increasingly hostile towards her and other faculty members who have been vocal about social justice issues.

Franke’s forced retirement has sparked a wave of support and solidarity from her colleagues and students, who have expressed their admiration for her dedication to social justice and her unwavering commitment to fighting for equality and human rights. Many have taken to social media to express their outrage at the university’s decision and to call for greater support and recognition for faculty members engaged in activism.

In response to the backlash, Columbia University has issued a statement denying that Franke’s activism played a role in their decision to force her into retirement. They stated that the decision was made based on financial considerations and the need to restructure the department. However, many remain skeptical of this explanation, citing a pattern of universities penalizing faculty members for their activism and outspokenness.

The case of Katherine Franke serves as a reminder of the challenges that activist academics face in institutions that may not always support or value their work. It raises important questions about academic freedom, institutional support for social justice work, and the role of universities in promoting diversity and inclusion.

As the debate over Franke’s forced retirement continues, it is clear that her legacy as a fearless advocate for social justice will endure. Her work has inspired countless individuals to stand up for what they believe in and to fight for a more just and equitable society. And while her departure from Columbia may be a loss for the university, it is a gain for the broader social justice movement, which will no doubt continue to benefit from her passion, expertise, and commitment to change.