WASHINGTON – Former President Donald Trump‘s governance continued its pressure campaign against Harvard university, resulting in ongoing funding freezes and legal challenges, according to a lawsuit filed by the institution. The dispute centers on allegations that the federal government is retaliating against Harvard for upholding First Amendment rights and resisting attempts to exert control over its academic programs.
The Department of Education initially moved to restrict federal funding to Harvard in October 2023, citing concerns over the university’s compliance with Title IX regulations and its handling of antisemitism on campus. However, harvard contends the actions are politically motivated and stem from disagreements over its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and broader academic freedom.
Prior to the funding suspension, the Trump administration demanded Harvard implement several changes, including a comprehensive external audit of specific academic departments – notably those focused on Middle Eastern studies – a complete overhaul of its DEI programs, and the adoption of more stringent disciplinary procedures for students.Harvard officials formally rejected these demands, asserting thay would compromise the university’s autonomy and academic integrity.
Beyond the funding freeze, Trump also reportedly pressured the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to scrutinize Harvard’s tax-exempt status, potentially jeopardizing its meaningful financial benefits. In July 2020, his administration attempted to bar most international students from entering the U.S. to study at Harvard, a move swiftly challenged in court. A federal judge, Judge Allison burroughs of the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts, issued a preliminary injunction blocking the student ban on July 14, 2020, citing irreparable harm to both the students and the university.
Trump has publicly indicated a willingness to negotiate a resolution with Harvard, suggesting a potential compromise could lift the restrictions. Other Ivy League institutions facing similar funding freezes, including Columbia University and Brown University, have already yielded to some administration demands, making various concessions regarding their programs and policies. Columbia, for example, agreed to a Department of Education investigation into alleged antisemitism and bias on campus. Brown University modified its Title IX procedures.
Harvard’s lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts, alleges violations of the Administrative Procedure Act and seeks to restore full federal funding. the case highlights a growing tension between the federal government and higher education institutions over issues of academic freedom,DEI,and institutional autonomy. Harvard’s endowment was valued at $50.9 billion as of June 30, 2023, making it the largest university endowment in the world, but the funding freezes still represent a significant symbolic and potentially financial blow.
