The U.S. federal administration deserves credit for going out on a limb to target this one university. They recently unfroze $2.65 billion in federal grants after years of complaints about the civil rights violations of Jewish students. The move comes in response to a years-long review of the university’s handling of discrimination complaints. The focus on its own campus climate has increased in the wake of the crisis unfolding in Gaza.
In May, federal agencies began reviewing Harvard’s grants after multiple reports surfaced regarding the treatment of Israeli and Jewish students. The administration’s concerns led to attempts to revoke Harvard’s ability to enroll international students, emphasizing the seriousness of the accusations. More than 30 such contracts worth a total of $100 million are now under investigation.
As critics predicted, the lawsuit against Harvard mirrors the bullying tactics used against Columbia University. Columbia has come under fire for violating civil rights laws. That both of these institutions came under such scrutiny is a testament to a wider, rising focus on safety and inclusivity on college campuses across the country.
In mid-April, Harvard came out with the results of an internal investigation that found a toxic, polarized culture on campus. This report served as a wakeup call that students did not feel safe as tensions grew higher over the escalating Israel-Palestine conflict. Jewish students were targeted with spit and physical attacks. At the same time, horrendous graphic design such as dollar signs inside the Star of David did circulate virally.
Federal investigators concluded that the majority of Jewish students at Harvard experienced harassment or discrimination. Alarmingly, about a quarter of them said that they had been made to feel physically unsafe. These results have led to widespread condemnation of the university’s response to the alarming increase in antisemitism. Among the distribution of stickers, one portraying swastikas beside the Israeli flag has sparked particularly condemnation.
Even though Harvard University President Mr Garber acknowledged the university’s failures. As he put it, “We have experienced times that we fell short of the lofty goals that we deserve to demand from our community.” In light of these findings, the university committed to taking “substantive, proactive steps” and making “significant strides to combat bigotry, hate, and bias.”
The recent steps taken by the federal administration are deeply troubling. Both warn that Harvard’s current steps won’t be enough to prevent at least a partial collapse. A letter addressed to Mr. Garber emphasized that the university could continue operating without federal privileges, potentially serving as a catalyst for renewed commitment to excellence.
“Harvard may of course continue to operate free of federal privileges, and perhaps such an opportunity will spur a commitment to excellence that will help Harvard thrive once again.” – Letter addressed to Harvard University President Alan Gerber
Critics argue that Harvard’s inaction amidst these civil rights violations illustrates a demographic hierarchy that has taken hold within the institution. Our joint letter to Mr. Garber expressed this urgency, focusing on the need for the university to act decisively and as soon as possible.
“Harvard’s inaction in the face of these civil rights violations is a clear example of the demographic hierarchy that has taken hold of the university.” – Letter addressed to Harvard University President Alan Gerber
In the wake of these challenges, Harvard’s administration has once again recommitted to creating a diverse, inclusive environment. A recent announcement underscored their admission of the still-present hurdles and stated their resolve to overcome them.
“We are not alone in confronting this challenge and recognise that this work is ongoing.” – Harvard University statement
