The Trump administration has accused Harvard University of violating civil rights laws by failing to protect Israeli and Jewish students from harassment and discrimination—raising the possibility
of losing federal funding.
In a letter obtained by the BBC, federal officials allege Harvard showed "deliberate indifference" toward reports from Jewish students who felt unsafe or threatened on campus. The letter warns that unless Harvard makes "adequate changes immediately," it risks losing all federal financial support.
“Harvard may continue to operate without federal privileges,” the letter reads, “and perhaps such an opportunity will renew its commitment to excellence.”
The letter, addressed to Harvard President Alan Garber, outlines findings from a federal investigation. According to the report, a majority of Jewish students experienced bias or discrimination, and about 25% reported feeling physically threatened. Specific incidents cited include physical assaults, antisemitic graffiti and stickers, and imagery combining dollar signs with the Star of David.
“Harvard’s failure to act illustrates a broader problem of racial and identity-based hierarchies on campus,” the letter states, claiming that the university’s emphasis on group identity over individual merit has allowed antisemitism to grow.
The document serves as a formal “notice of violation,” which typically precedes legal action or a negotiated resolution.
In April, Harvard released an internal report acknowledging deep campus divisions over the Israel-Gaza conflict. President Garber issued an apology at the time, citing lapses in the university’s response to student concerns.
This development marks the latest chapter in an escalating confrontation between the Trump administration and elite universities over antisemitism and campus protests. In May, the administration ordered a review of Harvard’s federal contracts—valued at roughly $100 million—and previously froze $2.65 billion in funding while also challenging the university’s ability to enroll international students.
Columbia University received a similar notice last month over comparable allegations and is currently in negotiations with federal officials.
Harvard has not yet publicly responded to the allegations. Photo by Ingfbruno, Wikimedia commons.