Harvard University, one of the most prestigious institutions in the United States, has sued the Trump administration. The move comes after the administration revoked the ability of international students to enroll in the university. This has further escalated the dispute between the White House and Harvard.
In the lawsuit filed in Boston, the Harvard University administration called the move a clear violation of the law. The lawsuit was filed a day after Department of Homeland Security officials revoked Harvard’s access to its student visa program. The Trump administration has alleged that Harvard has not taken enough steps to curb anti-Semitism and change its recruitment and admissions processes. However, the university has strongly denied the allegations.
This year, Harvard has about 6,800 international students. Which is more than 27% of the total enrollment. Harvard argued in the lawsuit that the government has tried to wipe out a quarter of Harvard’s students with the stroke of a pen. International students who make significant contributions to the university and its mission.
The university is seeking a court order to block Thursday’s move to revoke Harvard’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification, which would allow it to enroll foreign students.
“We condemn this unlawful and unreasonable action,” Harvard President Alan Garber said in a letter. He added that the government’s revocation is part of a series of retaliatory actions against Harvard because we refuse to give up our academic freedom and submit to the federal government’s illegal control over our curriculum, our faculty, and our student body.
The Trump administration has targeted Harvard and other elite universities. It has not only called for more action to crack down on pro-Palestinian activists but also accused them of discriminating against conservative views. The Trump administration has launched investigations into several universities across the country. It has also sought waivers from other major U.S. institutions, such as Columbia University in New York.
Trump is steadfast in his policies. Harvard is not giving up either. Many are waiting to see who the law will favor this time, meaning who will win legally.
Source: BBC