The decision follows the university’s refusal to implement policy changes requested by the US government.
The Trump administration is withholding over $2.2 billion in grants and $60 million in contracts from Harvard University. This action comes after the prestigious institution declined to meet a series of requirements set forth by the White House.
This conflict arises amid concerns regarding the handling of pro-Palestinian student protests on university campuses last year. Since taking office, Trump has been increasing pressure on universities to combat anti-Semitism and eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
Last week, the White House presented Harvard with a list of demands intended to address anti-Semitism on campus, warning that continued financial support from the government was contingent on compliance.
These proposals included alterations to the university’s governance, hiring procedures, and admissions practices, along with the removal of its DEI policies and programs.
Harvard rejected these demands on Monday, claiming the White House was attempting to exert undue influence over the university.
Harvard President Alan Garber stated in a letter that the university would defend its independence and constitutional rights. While affirming the university’s commitment to fighting anti-Semitism, he accused the government of overreach.
Shortly after, the government announced the funding freeze, citing the unacceptable disruption of learning on campuses.
The Education Department stated that the harassment of Jewish students is intolerable and that elite universities must address the issue seriously and commit to meaningful change to continue receiving taxpayer funding.
Previously, the federal task force cut $400 million in funding for Columbia University and threatened further funding cuts unless it met administration demands. Columbia agreed to many changes, drawing praise from Jewish organizations but criticism from free-speech advocates who considered it federal overreach.
The Trump administration has also suspended federal funding for the University of Pennsylvania, Brown, Princeton, Cornell, and Northwestern.