Harvard University in the United States has publicly opposed the Trump administration's call for an end to anti-Semitism. When the administration delivered unilateral demands conditional on maintaining the financial relationship with the federal government, Harvard responded, "The independence and constitutional rights of universities are not subjects for negotiation."
Alan M. Garber, president of Harvard University, emphasized in an open letter sent to the campus community on 14th (local time) that "No government can dictate what a university teaches, whom it admits or employs, and what research it conducts." He criticized, "The various measures proposed by the government are unrelated to addressing anti-Semitism, and they directly infringe upon the autonomy of the university and academic freedom."
Previously, the U.S. government notified Harvard of a review of the total $8.7 billion in subsidies and $250 million contracts. The background includes concerns about the spread of anti-Semitic sentiment on the Harvard campus and criticisms that the university has not adequately blocked it.
Harvard recently disclosed the nine updated measures requested by the federal government. These include the reduction of DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion) programs, a ban on mask-wearing, and sanctions against some students and faculty members. President Garber stated, "The government's demands infringe upon academic and educational freedom, as well as the freedom of expression, which exceeds the limitations of the First Amendment and civil rights laws," adding, "I have already conveyed the unacceptable stance through legal counsel."
He noted, "For decades, federal financial support has been the foundation of Harvard's groundbreaking achievements in medicine, engineering, and science," adding, "Threatening such partnerships could adversely affect the economic security of the United States and public health."
Garber also added that Harvard is not neglecting its response to anti-Semitism. He stated, "We have taken various measures over the past 15 months to address anti-Semitism on campus and will continue to strengthen this in the future." At the same time, he said, "While respecting freedom of expression and dissenting opinions, the university will manage protests so that they do not interfere with education, learning, and research."
Harvard faculty have reported the government's financial pressure as a "violation of constitutional rights" and have filed a lawsuit against the federal government. The Trump administration issued warning letters to about 60 universities, including Harvard, stating that they would impose sanctions for violations of civil rights laws if protections for Jewish individuals on campus are deemed insufficient.