Harvard Faces Federal Rebuke Over Civil Rights Concerns for Jewish Students
In a significant escalation of tensions between the White House and Harvard University, the Trump administration has formally accused the Ivy League institution of violating federal civil rights laws by failing to protect Jewish students from harassment and antisemitism on campus.
The accusation, issued in a notice of violation, could lead to the termination of Harvard’s federal funding, valued at over $100 million in contracts and more than $2.65 billion in grants, unless immediate corrective action is taken.
Federal Investigation Finds Widespread Harassment of Jewish Students
According to the federal letter—sent to Harvard President Alan Garber and obtained by the BBC—a “majority” of Jewish students reported experiencing discrimination or bias, while 25% said they felt physically threatened.
Among the documented incidents:
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Students being spat upon or physically assaulted
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Distribution of antisemitic stickers, including images depicting a swastika on an Israeli flag
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Circulation of images using the Star of David with a dollar sign
The administration described Harvard’s response as “deliberate indifference,” claiming the university allowed a “racial hierarchy” that has enabled antisemitism to grow unchecked.
⚖️ Trump Administration Pressures Universities Over Antisemitism
The move comes amid a broader crackdown on universities accused of failing to combat antisemitism during widespread campus protests over the war in Gaza, which began in October 2023. Earlier this year, the administration:
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Froze $2.65 billion in federal funds to Harvard
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Threatened to revoke Harvard’s ability to enroll international students
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Directed agencies to review 30 federal contracts
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Issued a similar civil rights notice to Columbia University
️ Harvard Defends Its Efforts to Combat Discrimination
In response to the federal notice, Harvard University said it has taken “substantive, proactive steps” to address antisemitism, including:
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Expanding non-discrimination and anti-bullying policies
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Launching antisemitism training initiatives
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Facilitating campus dialogue on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict
The university also referenced its April 2025 internal report, which found both Jewish and pro-Palestinian students felt unsafe amid the deep campus polarization. In that report, President Garber issued an apology for failing to uphold Harvard’s values during moments of crisis.
What Happens Next for Harvard?
The federal notice of violation typically serves as a warning that legal action or funding withdrawal may follow if no resolution is reached. Harvard must now decide whether to:
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Comply with the federal recommendations to avoid financial penalties
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Continue defending its internal measures while risking legal escalation
The situation places Harvard—and other top US universities—at the center of a national debate over free speech, campus safety, and civil rights enforcement.
