Harvard Faces $2.2B Freeze Amid Antisemitism Policy Row

Harvard University has faced a freeze of over $2.2 billion in federal grants and contracts following its refusal to comply with demands from the Trump administration, which included limiting campus activism and altering diversity programs. The administration's actions, justified as efforts to combat antisemitism, have been met with significant backlash from Democratic leaders, the academic community, and former President Obama, who praised Harvard's stand for academic freedom. Harvard President Alan Garber emphasized the institution's commitment to its independence and constitutional rights. The financial repercussions have raised concerns about the impact on critical research projects. Despite the pressure, Harvard has maintained its position against the administration's requirements, which it deems as unlawful and beyond governmental authority. The situation has sparked national debate on the role of government in higher education and the preservation of free speech on campuses.