WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Departments of Education (ED), Health and Human Services (HHS), and the General Services Administration (GSA) recently announced a comprehensive federal review of contracts and grants awarded to Harvard University and its affiliates. This initiative stems from the Joint Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism’s ongoing effort to ensure compliance with federal regulations and civil rights responsibilities across federally funded institutions.
The review will scrutinize over $255.6 million in federal contracts and $8.7 billion in multi-year grant commitments to Harvard, assessing whether the university adheres to all applicable legal and ethical standards. Particular attention will be placed on Harvard’s policies and practices regarding anti-Semitism prevention and response.
“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,” said Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. “Harvard’s failure to protect students on campus from anti-Semitic discrimination – all while promoting divisive ideologies over free inquiry – has put its reputation in serious jeopardy.”
Broad Scope of Review
The federal investigation will involve collaboration between the Joint Task Force and contracting agencies to determine whether federally funded projects at Harvard remain in compliance with civil rights protections and ethical guidelines. Specific measures include the university’s submission of a comprehensive list of all direct and affiliate federal contracts not initially disclosed.
Stop Work Orders may be issued for contracts that are determined to violate federal standards, with possible repercussions including the termination of agreements. Federal agencies aim to confirm that Harvard fosters a safe, inclusive environment for its students while meeting its obligations as a recipient of substantial taxpayer-funded resources.
Anti-Semitism Policy Enforcement
The Task Force’s actions follow the implementation of President Trump’s January 2025 Executive Order, Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism, which expanded legal and policy tools to address increasing incidents of anti-Semitism in the United States. These measures, designed to enhance enforcement across educational institutions, include the prosecution of anti-Semitic harassment, civil rights investigations, and immigration-related provisions for individuals found guilty of such activities.
“Hate in any form goes against the foundational principles of America,” said FAS Commissioner and Task Force member Josh Gruenbaum. “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 taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars.”
The launch of the Harvard review follows a similar probe at Columbia University, which resulted in compliance with nine conditions, including the return of canceled federal funds. These efforts highlight the Biden administration’s stance on holding institutions accountable for discriminatory practices.
Broader Implications
This initiative highlights the federal government’s effort to eliminate anti-Semitism and uphold civil rights protections, particularly within organizations that receive significant public funding. Harvard, as one of the premier academic institutions in the United States, faces a consequential moment in reassessing its campus policies and culture.
Potential administrative actions against non-compliant institutions signal a zero-tolerance policy for harassment and discrimination. The Joint Task Force has committed to ensuring that federal funding is awarded responsibly, sending a clear message to other universities about the importance of adhering to their legal obligations.
Sean Keveney, HHS Acting General Counsel and Task Force member, emphasized the importance of accountability in higher education. “The Task Force will continue its efforts to root out anti-Semitism and refocus our institutions of higher learning on the core values that undergird a liberal education,” he said.
With the outcomes of the Harvard review likely to influence compliance procedures nationwide, this effort is a key example of the government’s resolve to counter discriminatory practices and reinforce fundamental principles of equality and inclusion. The investigation also reflects a broader conversation on balancing the protection of civil liberties with the enforcement of anti-discrimination measures.
Harvard’s participation and response in the review process will likely shape its legacy at a time when the standards for academic institutions are under heightened scrutiny. For now, the federal government remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring that American universities honor their responsibilities to provide safe and equitable environments for all.
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