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Harvard University announced Monday it will not accept a proposed agreement from the Trump administration that would condition continued federal funding on sweeping changes to its campus policies, citing a defense of its constitutional rights and institutional independence.
In response, the White House ordered a freeze on $2.2 billion in multi-year federal grants and an additional $60 million in contracts with the Ivy League institution, escalating a confrontation that could reshape the relationship between universities and the federal government.
“The University will not surrender its independence or relinquish its constitutional rights,” said Harvard President Alan Garber, warning the freeze risks “the health and well-being of millions” and could threaten national innovation.
What Sparked the Clash?
At issue is a federal investigation into alleged antisemitism on college campuses following pro-Palestinian demonstrations and encampments, particularly at Harvard Yard. The administration’s letter to Harvard, dated April 11, demanded:
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An immediate end to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies
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A “viewpoint diversity audit” of students and faculty
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Leadership changes and accountability measures
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Disciplinary actions against students involved in protest encampments
The administration also invoked Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination in federally funded institutions, accusing Harvard of failing to protect Jewish students.
“Harvard or any institution that wishes to violate Title VI is, by law, not eligible for federal funding,” said White House Deputy Press Secretary Harrison Fields.
The Trump administration had already canceled $400 million in federal support to Columbia University in March over similar protest-related concerns.
Harvard’s Response and Broader Implications
President Garber defended Harvard’s record, noting ongoing efforts to combat antisemitism on campus. However, he firmly rejected the federal agreement, arguing it “goes beyond the power of the federal government.”
“We plan to do much more,” Garber said, “but we will not sacrifice academic freedom or allow outside pressure to dictate how this university governs itself.”
Harvard’s refusal has drawn both criticism and praise. The Joint Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism accused the university of having a “troubling entitlement mindset,” asserting that civil rights compliance is a condition of taxpayer funding.
Meanwhile, former President Barack Obama weighed in, praising Harvard’s decision and urging other universities to “reject unlawful and ham-handed attempts to stifle academic freedom.”
“Let’s hope other institutions follow suit,” Obama wrote on social media.
The Financial Fallout
Federal grants represent Harvard’s largest source of research funding, totaling $686 million in 2024 alone. The current freeze affects multi-year awards totaling over $2.2 billion, potentially jeopardizing scientific, medical, and engineering breakthroughs led by university researchers.
Facing mounting uncertainty, Harvard previously announced a hiring freeze and cited “rapidly shifting federal policies” as a key driver of financial strain.
