Trump administration targets Ivy League school, law journal for racial discrimination
The Trump administration has launched investigations into Harvard University and the Harvard Law Review after allegations of discrimination against white men who wanted to respond to an article about police reform. The Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) are looking into possible violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
According to a press release from HHS, the Harvard Law Review’s editor expressed concern that four out of five people who wanted to reply to an article on police reform were white men. Another editor reportedly suggested expediting a review of a piece because the author was a minority. These actions have raised concerns about the selection process based on race, potentially violating Title VI.
Title VI prohibits discrimination based on race, color, and national origin in education programs that receive federal funding. Violations could lead to the loss of federal funds. HHS Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor stated that the Review’s selection process appears to prioritize race over merit, which is against the law.
Harvard Law School responded by stating its commitment to compliance with all applicable laws and investigating any alleged violations. The school clarified that the Harvard Law Review is a student-run organization independent from the law school. A claim brought in 2018 was previously dismissed by the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts.
This investigation comes amid escalating tensions between the Trump administration and elite institutions like Harvard. The administration recently announced a freeze of over $2 billion in federal funding to Harvard University, with further threats of cutting an additional $1 billion in grants and funding.
Harvard President Alan M. Garber cited unconstitutional demands from the administration, including regulating the “intellectual conditions” on campus and eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. The administration’s refusal to collaborate on addressing antisemitism led Harvard to reject the proposed agreement.
The Trump administration’s Federal Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism aims to eradicate bias targeting Jewish students on campuses. The task force emphasized the need for elite universities to address the issue seriously to continue receiving taxpayer support.
In conclusion, the investigations into Harvard University and the Harvard Law Review highlight the ongoing debate over discrimination and free speech on college campuses. The Trump administration’s actions underscore the importance of upholding civil rights laws and promoting inclusivity in educational institutions.
