Harvard University is facing a significant federal funding ultimatum following an announcement from the Trump administration. The U.S. Department of Education stated that Harvard will not receive any new federal grants until it meets specific demands regarding its operational practices, particularly concerning issues like antisemitism, racial discrimination, and viewpoint diversity. This marks a major escalation in Trump’s ongoing conflict with the prestigious institution, which the administration accuses of fostering a liberal and intolerant environment.
Previously, the administration had already frozen $2.2 billion in federal grants, as Trump seeks to challenge the perceived biases at Ivy League schools. The current actions focus on federal research grants, excluding financial aid for students, which Harvard heavily relies on. Education Secretary Linda McMahon criticized Harvard for allegedly enrolling foreign students who exhibit contempt for the U.S., and emphasized that the university must demonstrate responsible management and enter negotiations to be eligible for new grants.
The administration demands reforms not only to address contentions around discrimination but also to implement stricter policies on campus protests and increase diversity in faculty viewpoints. Harvard’s president has publicly resisted these demands, claiming they infringe on the university’s rights and principles. The institution has also filed a lawsuit arguing that the funding freeze is arbitrary and violates the First Amendment and the Civil Rights Act.
With a $53 billion endowment, Harvard generates a little over 10% of its revenue from federal funds, excluding financial aid. The situation has intensified tensions between the university and the federal government as Harvard seeks to protect its autonomy amidst increasing scrutiny.
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