A legal showdown is underway between Harvard University and the Trump administration, as both parties face off in a Boston courtroom over the freezing of more than $2 billion in federal grants. At the heart of the dispute are sweeping demands from the White House for Harvard to overhaul its hiring, admissions, and teaching practices including ending diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and implementing stronger anti-antisemitism measures.
The administration has also sought to restrict the university’s use of a visa program that facilitates the enrolment of foreign students, a move Harvard is vigorously contesting in court. The case, being heard by U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs, is being closely watched given its potential to redefine the relationship between federally funded institutions and government oversight.
Harvard is seeking a summary judgment a swift ruling without the need for a full trial and has asked for a decision by September 3, the deadline imposed by the administration to terminate its financial support unless changes are made. In its legal filings, the university accuses the Trump administration of violating its First Amendment rights, arguing that the measures infringe on academic freedom and free speech.
The university further claims that the freeze is punitive and not aligned with the issues raised by the government. “There is no rational connection between the defunding and the alleged concerns,” Harvard’s legal team stated.
The Justice Department, however, argues that federal funding comes with explicit conditions, including compliance with national policies. “If universities fail to meet these conditions, the grants are subject to cancellation,” government lawyers said, while also requesting the case be transferred to the Federal Court of Claims.
The confrontation is part of a broader White House campaign targeting elite universities. Columbia University recently complied with several administration demands after facing threats of losing $400 million in funding, though further punitive measures have followed, including threats to revoke accreditation.
President Trump has hinted at a possible settlement with Harvard, but legal experts anticipate a drawn-out battle — one that may ultimately reach the U.S. Supreme Court.
