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Harvard University Sues Trump Administration Over Funding Freeze
Harvard University has initiated legal action against the Trump administration, challenging what it describes as an “unprecedented and improper” attempt to control the institution. The lawsuit follows the federal government’s move to freeze $2.2 billion in grants, a decision Harvard argues is unlawful and jeopardizes crucial research activities. The prestigious university contends the funding freeze is linked to demands concerning antisemitism on campus, but lacks any rational basis and infringes on fundamental rights.
University President Condemns Government Overreach
Alan Garber, President of Harvard University, conveyed the gravity of the situation in a public statement, asserting that the government’s actions represent a severe overreach. He warned of “long-lasting” and detrimental repercussions stemming from the administration’s intervention.
Lawsuit Alleges First Amendment Violations
The legal complaint, lodged in a Massachusetts federal district court, formally accuses the Trump administration of disregarding the First Amendment alongside established federal statutes and regulations. Harvard maintains that the administration’s demands, and subsequent funding freeze, represent an infringement upon its rights and academic freedom.
Dispute Centers on Antisemitism Measures
The current dispute originated last week when the Trump administration declared a halt to federal disbursements. This action came after Harvard declined to accede to administration requests purportedly aimed at combating antisemitism within the university environment.
Government Demands Outlined
The administration’s stipulations included conducting an audit of student perspectives and prohibiting the enrollment of international students deemed “hostile to American values and institutions.” Harvard views these demands as unreasonable and overreaching.
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Harvard Argues Funding Freeze Unjustified
In its legal filing, Harvard explicitly states that the funding freeze bears no legitimate connection to the administration’s stated concerns about antisemitism. The university emphasizes that the affected funds are crucial for vital research endeavors.
Impact on Research and National Interest
The lawsuit elaborates, stating, “The Government has not — and cannot — identify any rational connection between antisemitism concerns and the medical, scientific, technological, and other research it has frozen that aims to save American lives, foster American success, preserve American security, and maintain America’s position as a global leader in innovation.”
It further emphasizes the “significant consequences” of the funding freeze, highlighting the detrimental effect on Harvard’s research programs, the beneficiaries of this research, and, broadly, “the national interest in furthering American innovation and progress.”
University Seeks Court Intervention
Harvard is petitioning the Massachusetts federal judge to declare the president’s “freeze order” unconstitutional. The university is seeking a court order compelling the government to reverse all terminations or freezes related to federal funding and restore the allocated financial support.
White House Response Awaited
As of Monday, the White House had not issued an immediate response to requests for comment regarding the lawsuit and the allegations therein.