Harvard Sues Trump for His Threats to Freeze Federal Funds

Faculty members and students at Harvard University at a community rally resisting Trump's threats. (Image Credit: AP Photo)

Harvard University has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration's threats to freeze more than 2.2 billion in federal grants to the institution if the University did not comply with the administration’s demands. Some of these demands to Harvard included Harvard implementing changes to its diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and admission policies.

Harvard President Alan Garber stated that the university would not bend to the demands, and hours later, billions of dollars in federal funds allocated to the organization were frozen.

“The tradeoff put to Harvard and other universities is clear: Allow the Government to micromanage your academic institution or jeopardize the institution's ability to pursue medical breakthroughs, scientific discoveries, and innovative solutions,” Harvard lawyers wrote in Monday’s filing.

The 51-page complaint filed by Harvard lawyers asks that the country halt and declare the 2.2 billion freeze and any freezes made in connection with “unconstitutional conditions” by the Trump administration unlawful.

“The Trump administration continues its reckless and unlawful attack for power and control over Harvard, slashing billions in funding in scientific research and innovation that improve and save lives,” said Anurmina Bhargava, a Harvard alumnus.