The Departments of Education (ED), Health and Human Services (HHS), and the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) have announced a comprehensive review of federal contracts and grants at Harvard University and its affiliates. This effort is part of the Joint Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism.
The review will cover more than $255.6 million in contracts and over $8.7 billion in multi-year grant commitments between Harvard University and the Federal Government. The aim is to ensure compliance with federal regulations, including civil rights responsibilities.
"Harvard has served as a symbol of the American Dream for generations – the pinnacle aspiration for students all over the world to work hard and earn admission to the storied institution," stated Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. She emphasized that Harvard's reputation is jeopardized by failing to protect students from anti-Semitic discrimination and promoting divisive ideologies over free inquiry.
This action follows a similar review at Columbia University, which agreed to comply with nine preconditions after negotiations regarding the return of canceled federal funds. The initiative is a step toward enforcing President Trump's Executive Order titled "Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism," focusing on ensuring that federally funded institutions prevent anti-Semitic harassment.
The government, with relevant contracting agencies, may issue Stop Work Orders for identified contracts. Harvard has been instructed to submit a comprehensive contract list, including those not in the initial review.
“The Task Force will continue its efforts to root out anti-Semitism and to refocus our institutions of higher learning on the core values that undergird a liberal education,” said HHS Acting General Counsel and Task Force member, Sean Keveney.
Institutions not complying with federal standards face potential administrative actions, including contract termination. The Task Force aims to allocate federal funds responsibly and hold institutions accountable for anti-Semitic harassment. GSA has been tasked with facilitating the review of federal funding received by Harvard.
“Hate in any form goes against the foundational principles of America. While Harvard's recent actions to curb institutionalized anti-Semitism - though long overdue - are welcome, there is much more that the university must do to retain the privilege of receiving federal taxpayer's hard earned dollars,” commented FAS Commissioner and Task Force Member, Josh Gruenbaum. He warned that the administration would act swiftly against institutions allowing anti-Semitism to persist.
For further information, individuals are directed to the announcement on the Task Force's formation and the HHS, ED, and GSA joint press release from March 3rd.
