Judge Blocks Trump’s Ban on Foreign Students at Harvard University

Federal Judge Blocks Trump’s Ban on International Students at Harvard

In a significant legal development, a federal judge has temporarily blocked President Donald Trump’s recent proclamation aimed at preventing international students from attending Harvard University. This move comes as the administration attempts to curb the enrollment of foreign students at one of the nation’s most prestigious institutions.

The proclamation, issued on Wednesday, was quickly challenged by Harvard, which argued that the action was an illegal retaliation against the university. Harvard claimed the president’s order was an attempt to bypass a prior court decision.

U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs in Boston responded swiftly by issuing a temporary restraining order. She noted that Harvard demonstrated it would face “immediate and irreparable injury” if the order were enforced before a thorough hearing could be conducted.

This is not the first time the administration has targeted Harvard’s international student body. Last month, an attempt by the Department of Homeland Security to revoke the university’s ability to host foreign students was also temporarily blocked by Burroughs.

If the president’s latest measure were to be implemented, it would prevent thousands of students from joining Harvard’s campus for upcoming academic terms. “Harvard’s more than 7,000 F-1 and J-1 visa holders — and their dependents — have become pawns in the government’s escalating campaign of retaliation,” the university stated in a court filing.

While the legal proceedings continue, Harvard is preparing alternative plans to ensure that students and visiting scholars can maintain their academic activities. Harvard’s President Alan Garber emphasized the importance of the university’s global community, stating, “Each of us is part of a truly global university community. We know that the benefits of bringing talented people together from around the world are unique and irreplaceable.”

Over the years, international enrollment at Harvard has increased significantly, rising from 11% to 26% of the student body. However, this growth has also made the university more susceptible to policy changes targeting foreign students.

Republicans have criticized elite colleges like Harvard, accusing them of fostering “woke” and antisemitic attitudes. In response, Trump’s administration has threatened to withhold federal funding from institutions that do not comply with their demands regarding campus policies and practices.

Despite the financial challenges posed by potential funding cuts, Harvard’s substantial $53 billion endowment provides some cushion. Nonetheless, President Garber has warned of “difficult decisions and sacrifices” if the situation persists.

As the situation unfolds, the university continues to uphold its commitment to its “core, legally-protected principles,” despite pressure from the federal government.