Harvard University Wins Against Trump Administration
The decision has implications for the broader academic community, as it underscores the importance of protecting constitutional rights and promoting academic freedom. Harvard University's international students can now breathe a sigh of relief, but the university's legal battles with the Trump administration are far from over.
A federal judge in Boston has blocked a Trump administration plan to bar foreign students and scholars from entering the US to study or work at Harvard University, citing likely illegal actions and serious constitutional concerns.
US District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs granted Harvard University's request for a preliminary injunction, extending a temporary order issued on June 5. The Trump administration had cited national security concerns, accusing Harvard of failing to turn over records about its international students to the US Department of Homeland Security. However, University officials have denied this claim, and Judge Burroughs admonished the administration for taking abrupt action with little thought to the ramifications on international students and the country.
The judge concluded that the government's actions threaten core constitutional rights, including freedom of thought, expression, and speech. The Trump administration has frozen over $3 billion in grants and contracts with Harvard, and the University has filed two civil lawsuits alleging the government's actions are unlawful and retaliatory. The administration has notified the US First Circuit Court of Appeals that it plans to file an appeal.
Harvard University has advised international students, particularly those from Iran and China, to avoid entering the US through Boston's Logan Airport due to increased scrutiny. Instead, the university suggests flying into alternative airports like New York's JFK. Students are also warned to be cautious about their social media activity and electronic device content, as US authorities can review social media accounts and inspect personal devices, and may deny entry based on the content found.
The ruling is a significant victory for Harvard University and international students, who can now continue to study and work at the university without fear of being barred from entering the US. The case highlights the ongoing tensions between Harvard and the Trump administration regarding international student enrollment and research funding.