Harvard Battles Trump Ban: Students Targeted

Harvard University is challenging the Trump administration’s move to prohibit it from enrolling international students, labeling the action unconstitutional retaliation. This marks the prestigious institution’s second legal battle against the administration.

This recent clash follows previous tensions where the administration attempted to cut over $2 billion in federal funding. These earlier disputes arose from Harvard’s refusal to comply with administration demands regarding policy changes and audits related to “viewpoint diversity” among faculty and students.

Filed in Boston federal court, Harvard’s lawsuit argues the ban violates the First Amendment, causing an “immediate and devastating effect” on the university and over 7,000 visa holders. The school asserts the action seeks to eliminate a quarter of its diverse student body from over 100 countries.

The administration justified its decision citing an “unsafe” environment at Harvard, pointing to alleged “anti-American, pro-terrorist agitators” and accusations of coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party. Homeland Security demanded extensive records on foreign students involved in protests.

Harvard, home to nearly 6,800 international students, including many from China, plans to seek a temporary restraining order. The ban could significantly impact departments and sports teams with high international participation. Harvard’s president noted governance changes while vowing to protect core principles.