Full Breakdown
Federal Complaint Filed Against Harvard Over Race-Restricted Scholarship Program
12/9/2025, 12:37:15 AM
Overview of the Complaint
Harvard University is facing a federal complaint regarding its Union Scholars summer scholarship program, which is exclusively available to students of color. The complaint, filed by the Equal Protection Project, argues that this program constitutes unlawful discrimination based on race. The Union Scholars program, administered by the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), offers ten applicants a stipend of $4,800 along with $6,000 in need-based assistance. The complaint emphasizes that Harvard's active promotion and support of this program violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits racial discrimination in federally funded programs.
Background and Context
The complaint arises in the wake of a significant 2023 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that deemed affirmative action in college admissions unconstitutional. Harvard has been under scrutiny for its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies, which have been criticized by various groups, including the Trump administration. The administration has pressured Harvard to eliminate race-based programs and increase conservative representation on campus.
Key Figures Involved
William Jacobson, president of the Equal Protection Project and a Harvard alumnus, is a central figure in the complaint. He has been vocal about the need for Harvard to cease race-based admissions and scholarship practices. Robert Fox, a lawyer for the Equal Protection Project, has also criticized Harvard's involvement in the Union Scholars program, stating that the university is not merely a bystander but actively engages in promoting a race-restricted opportunity.
Official Statements & Responses
The Equal Protection Project's complaint asserts that the Union Scholars Program's eligibility criteria, which require applicants to be from "historically marginalized communities," explicitly restrict participation based on race. Jacobson has called for the Department of Justice to take swift action against Harvard, citing the university's previous legal battles over race-based admissions. Harvard President Alan Garber has acknowledged the need for increased conservative representation but has rejected the broader demands from the Trump administration regarding DEI policies.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the complaint argue that programs like the Union Scholars are essential for supporting underrepresented groups and promoting social justice. AFSCME describes the program as a summer internship initiative aimed at students of color who are passionate about workers' rights. However, the Equal Protection Project contends that such initiatives perpetuate discrimination and violate federal law.
What's Next
As applications for the Union Scholars program are currently open, with a deadline of February 28, 2026, the Equal Protection Project is urging the Department of Justice to investigate Harvard's role in the program. The outcome of this complaint could have significant implications for the future of race-based scholarships and DEI initiatives at Harvard and potentially other institutions.
Verbatim Quotes
“Harvard isn’t a bystander; it hosts the orientation, provides support, and promotes the program,” — Robert Fox, Lawyer, Equal Protection Project
“What doesn’t Harvard understand about not discriminating based on race?” — William Jacobson, President, Equal Protection Project
“Considering that Harvard litigated the issue of race-based admissions all the way to the Supreme Court and lost, prompt and aggressive DOJ action is warranted,” — Equal Protection Project Complaint
