Harvard Seeks Dismissal of DOJ Antisemitism Lawsuit

DOJ alleges Harvard failed to protect Jewish and Israeli students from harassment, assaults, stalking, violating Title VI. Harvard argues complaint “relies on a snapshot in time that does not exist today” and that university has taken “sustained, institution-wide efforts.” Liz Huston said Harvard refused offers to resolve issue and warned administration will continue action unless university comes to table. Lawyers call DOJ’s approach an “ostrich-like attempt to ignore” reforms, saying suit “retreads allegations already tested and rejected in court.”

Harvard CrimsonNew York Times

Harvard sued after Trump administration froze funding; a September 2025 ruling by Judge Allison D. Burroughs declared the freeze unconstitutional. In January 2025 Harvard adopted International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance antisemitism definition as part of settlements with Brandeis Center and student Alexander “Shabbos” Kestenbaum.

Harvard Crimson

Key participants are Harvard University, DOJ, Judge Richard G. Stearns, White House spokeswoman Liz Huston, and antisemitism task force. DOJ’s complaint cites 2023-2024 incidents and seeks restitution of nearly $1 billion in grants. Harvard’s report includes protest rules, antisemitism training, a streamlined disciplinary process and expanded complaint procedures.

Harvard Crimson

The DOJ claims Harvard’s handling of antisemitic and anti-Israeli harassment violates federal civil-rights law. Harvard’s motion contends the government’s case is based on outdated incidents and ignores a series of institutional reforms. The White House emphasizes that the administration will pursue all legal avenues to enforce Title VI protections.

Harvard Crimson

DOJ’s narrative emphasizes antisemitic incidents from late 2023 and early 2024, while Harvard’s response highlights policy changes and procedural improvements made after those events. The complaint does not address specific reforms cited by Harvard, creating a factual gap for the court.

Harvard Crimson

• “Unless Harvard decides to come to the table, the administration will continue pursuing all available legal avenues to enforce federal civil rights laws and protect all students on Harvard’s campus,” — Liz Huston, White House spokeswoman

New York Times

• “It is remarkable that the Complaint omits any reference to these actions,” — Harvard’s legal team

Harvard Crimson

• “retreads allegations already tested and rejected in court.” — Harvard’s motion

Harvard Crimson

Judge Stearns is expected to rule on the motion in coming weeks. A dismissal would end DOJ’s attempt to claw back grant money and impose federal oversight; a denial could lead to prolonged litigation over Title VI compliance and future federal funding for Harvard’s research programs.

Harvard Crimson