Harvard University has made headlines by rejecting a list of demands from the Trump administration, even though doing so could cost the school nearly $9 billion in federal funding. The administration asked Harvard and other elite universities to eliminate diversity and inclusion programs, ban student groups that support Palestine, increase surveillance of international students, and enforce stricter protest rules on campus—including banning face coverings during demonstrations. The demands also included a push to base admissions strictly on merit, without considering race or background.
Harvard's leadership refused to comply, stating that the university will not abandon its core values or limit student expression because of political pressure. President Alan Garber emphasized the importance of protecting academic freedom and maintaining an inclusive environment. Harvard's firm stance has sparked national attention, especially as other schools like Columbia University have partially accepted the demands to avoid losing funding.
This moment marks a major turning point in the relationship between politics and education in the U.S.
With billions on the line, Harvard's decision to stand by its principles could inspire similar actions from other institutions—or lead to major consequences in higher education.