Trump administration launches lawsuit against Harvard over antisemitism

WASHINGTON, DC: The Trump administration escalated its legal battle with Harvard University on Friday, March 20, filing a federal lawsuit alleging violations of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

The 44-page complaint, filed in the US District Court for the District of Massachusetts, accuses the university of discrimination and “deliberate indifference” toward Jewish and Israeli students following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks.

The Justice Department claims Harvard failed to address incidents of antisemitism on campus, marking a significant step after earlier efforts to freeze nearly $2 billion in federal funding were blocked by a federal judge last year.

Harvard’s deliberate indifference to harassment

According to the complaint, Jewish and Israeli students were subjected to what the government describes as a “hostile educational environment,” including allegations of harassment, intimidation, and restricted access to campus spaces.

The lawsuit alleges that university leadership did not adequately enforce campus policies during protests, including an encampment that reportedly remained in place for several weeks despite rule violations.

Federal officials argue that these actions, or lack thereof, resulted in unequal access to educational opportunities, raising concerns under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.

Billions in federal funding at stake

The administration is also seeking financial remedies tied to Harvard’s federal funding.

The university is currently set to receive more than $2.6 billion in active grants from the Department of Health and Human Services.

The lawsuit asks the court to determine that Harvard breached its obligations under federal law and grant agreements, and to block further payments.

It also seeks the recovery of funds distributed during the alleged period of noncompliance.

Failed negotiations lead to litigation 

The legal action follows months of engagement between federal agencies and the university.

The Department of Health and Human Services issued a formal notice of violation in June 2025 after concluding that Harvard’s response to reported antisemitic incidents did not meet federal standards.

Officials said discussions continued through July but did not result in a resolution, leading to the decision to pursue litigation.

The complaint states that while protests are protected, conduct that targets individuals based on identity falls outside those protections.

Demand for independent outside monitor

As part of the lawsuit, the administration is seeking the appointment of an independent monitor to oversee Harvard’s compliance with federal requirements.

The proposed monitor would review university policies, report findings to the court, and recommend corrective measures. The government is also requesting a permanent injunction to prevent further violations and to ensure cooperation with law enforcement where applicable.