A multitude of universities have fallen victim to funding cuts imposed by the Trump administration. The administration claims that the colleges were illegally using antisemitism and race in their admission decisions. Harvard, taking the brunt of the retained funds, has denied these claims. They rely heavily on government funding in order to carry out essential research studies.

So far, the administration has cut $2 billion from the university with another seven billion at stake if they do not comply. In order to regain access to these funds the government is asking that Harvard give them control over who they hire and the curriculums they teach. The college is one of the only universities who has refused the administration’s terms and sought to resolve the issue in court. The university claims that these demands violate 1st amendment laws and compromise their independence.  

Other Ivy Leagues have faced similar challenges with the Trump administration including, Columbia and Brown who have agreed to pay $221 million and $50 million respectively to the government. In their recent settlements they also followed giving the administration access to applicant information, such as test scores and racial background. Many people have argued that this jeopardizes the country’s academic freedom.

In recent discussions, both parties have come close to reaching an agreement where Harvard will pay $500 million in damages. Over 14,000 alumni urge the university to not give into the administration’s conditions, claiming that the effects of such an agreement will completely alter the college. The Trump administration, however, has stood firm in their requests and states the university has had a “lack of compliance with civil rights laws.” The dispute is ongoing and has yet to see a resolution. Though it is certain that no matter the viewpoint, influential research and the education of thousands hangs in the balance.