Harvard sues Trump administration over foreign student ban
Harvard University filed a lawsuit on Friday against the Trump administration over actions by the White House to prevent foreign students from attending the university. This is the second lawsuit in this matter. It appeared less than a day after the Department of Homeland Security took steps concerning foreigners at the prestigious institution.
What do you need to know?
- Trump administration's decision: Harvard University lost the right to accept foreign students due to the refusal to hand over materials regarding protests.
- Consequences for students: Current foreign students must transfer to other universities to maintain their legal status.
- University's reaction: Harvard University filed a lawsuit in federal court in Boston on Friday.
Why did the Trump administration make this decision?
The Trump administration decided to revoke Harvard University's right to accept foreign students. The reason for this decision was the university's refusal to hand over materials concerning students participating in recent protests. U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, accused Harvard of inciting violence and collaborating with the Communist Party of China.
Since taking office, the administration has launched numerous investigations against Harvard – currently at least eight, across various federal agencies. U.S. authorities present their actions as part of a campaign to combat anti-Semitism and ideological bias in higher education. During his campaign, President Trump referred to Ivy League institutions as "Marxist maniacs." The White House demanded documentation of protest activity from the last five years on 16 April, including video recordings of alleged misconduct and disciplinary records concerning foreign students.
How did the Harvard University authorities react?
The legal action, filed in federal court in Boston, challenges the government’s decision to revoke certification for the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) at Harvard. University authorities argue that the Trump administration's move is a "flagrant violation" of the First Amendment and other federal laws.
The university's provost, Dr. Alan M. Garber, condemned the move. He warned that the decision would have an "immediate and devastating impact" on the institution and over 7,000 international visa holders.
"With the stroke of a pen, the government has sought to erase a quarter of Harvard's student body, international students who contribute significantly to the University and its mission," Harvard wrote in its lawsuit.
According to the lawsuit filed on Friday in the Boston federal court, the administration's decision was retaliatory, caused by Harvard exercising its First Amendment rights. On Thursday, the government informed the university about revoking SEVP certification, effectively preventing it from accepting foreign students. Harvard stated it would seek a temporary court order to block this decision.
What will be the consequences for Harvard students?
The Trump administration's decision means that Harvard University can no longer accept new foreign students. Current students need to transfer to other universities. This action could affect one-quarter of all students at the institution, posing a significant challenge to its finances.
Could other universities face similar sanctions?
U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, warned other universities that they might face similar sanctions if they fail to comply with the administration's requirements. Noem emphasized that the ability to accept foreign students is a privilege, not a right, which could raise concerns among other educational institutions.
