HHS and DOJ Intervene in Harvard’s Anti-Semitism Case
On Wednesday, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) connected Harvard University with the Department of Justice (DOJ), arguing that schools appear unwilling to self-address anti-Semitism.
The HHS’ Civil Rights Bureau previously warned Harvard, citing a violation of civil rights law due to an alleged failure to address harassment experienced by anti-Semitic students. According to a memo obtained by the Daily Caller News Foundation, HHS now believes that Harvard’s compliance cannot be achieved voluntarily, especially because of a lawsuit against the Trump administration. Consequently, referral to the DOJ is deemed necessary.
The memo states, “Instead of complying with its obligations under Title VI, Harvard opted to pursue a lawsuit against the federal government. Efforts involving political parties yielded no substantial results.”
Harvard did not reply to requests for comments.
At present, both political parties are engaged in multiple legal challenges, including one concerning the Trump administration’s alleged withholding of federal funds, which Harvard claims violates civil rights laws. The university has reportedly won some of its legal battles, including a court injunction against attempts by the administration to restrict funding to Harvard students.
The conflict began in March when the Trump administration revealed plans to reassess over $8 billion in federal grants, accusing Harvard of failing to protect Jewish students from discrimination. Shortly thereafter, the Department of Education proposed reforms aimed at improving Harvard’s disciplinary processes for students.
Initially, Harvard resisted these pressures but later attempted negotiations, asserting its need to maintain some autonomy. Recently, the university disclosed intentions to submit citizenship and job eligibility documents for nearly all employees to the Department of Homeland Security.
However, hesitancy in addressing these issues has already jeopardized over $2 billion in federal funding. Additionally, the Trump administration is scrutinizing Harvard’s accreditation and its capacity to enroll international students.
Recent reports indicate that Harvard might be on the verge of reaching a settlement, with sources suggesting that the Ivy League institution could pay around $500 million to resolve these disputes.
