The federal government has announced a freeze on over $2.2 billion in grants and contracts to Harvard University after the institution refused to comply with the Trump administration’s demands to curb campus activism.
In a letter sent to Harvard on Friday, the administration called for sweeping reforms within the university’s government and leadership, urging the implementation of “merit-based” admissions and hiring practices. Additionally, the letter requested an audit of the university’s student body, faculty, and leadership to assess their views on diversity.
The updated demands also include a controversial ban on face masks, seemingly aimed at limiting pro-Palestinian protests, and a directive to cease recognizing or funding any student group that supports criminal activity, illegal violence, or harassment.
