The Trump administration has taken formal action against Harvard University, referring it to the U.S. Department of Justice over accusations of antisemitic behavior on campus.
The decision follows an investigation that concluded Harvard failed to act on reported cases of harassment targeting Jewish and Israeli students.
The Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) launched the inquiry earlier this year after complaints surfaced from students and advocacy groups.
The complaints described a hostile campus environment in which Jewish and Israeli students said they were subject to intimidation, exclusion, and threats, particularly linked to political debates around the Israel-Palestine conflict.
In a letter sent to Harvard this week, federal officials said the university may have breached civil rights laws by not adequately protecting students under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.
This law requires institutions receiving federal funding to ensure all students are free from discrimination based on race, color, or national origin—including ethnic or ancestral identities.
The university’s handling of recent campus protests and online harassment campaigns reportedly raised concerns among investigators.
According to the findings, Harvard did not respond quickly or thoroughly to certain complaints, failing to provide support services or issue disciplinary measures when appropriate.
By forwarding the matter to the Justice Department, the Trump administration has signaled a broader approach to enforcing civil rights protections in higher education, particularly involving religious and ethnic groups.
The Justice Department will now decide whether to open a legal case or pursue further action.
Harvard has not yet responded to the referral, but previously stated it was reviewing its internal policies and taking steps to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all students.