Federal Judge Stops Trump’s Bid to Shut Out Foreign Students at Harvard
Trump Harvard international student ban struck down as Judge Burroughs blocks order targeting foreign scholars.
The order, signed earlier this month by President Donald Trump, claimed national security threats and cited Harvard’s alleged ties to China and failure to curb antisemitism. Judge Burroughs ruled the proclamation unconstitutional, emphasizing that the move violated the First Amendment rights of the school and its students.
Constitutional Rights Under Attack, Judge Says
“This case is about core constitutional rights that must be safeguarded: freedom of thought, freedom of expression, and freedom of speech,” Burroughs wrote. “The government’s effort to control a reputable academic institution and squelch diverse viewpoints… threatens these rights.”
The judge also criticized the administration for placing the burden of political retaliation on international students, noting the “little thought” given to the consequences for students or the broader academic community.
What Prompted Trump’s Ban?
Trump’s proclamation sought to ban foreign nationals from entering the U.S. to study at Harvard and revoke visas for those already enrolled. It followed several moves by the administration, including:
- Freezing $2.5 billion in federal funding
- Threatening Harvard’s tax-exempt status
- Launching investigations into Harvard’s curriculum and governance
The proclamation was backed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who claimed—without evidence—that Harvard was coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party and “fostering violence” on campus.
Harvard’s Legal Pushback Pays Off
Harvard quickly filed lawsuits alleging retaliation for exercising its free speech rights, and Judge Burroughs had already issued a temporary block earlier in June. On June 23, she made the ruling official with a preliminary injunction, ensuring that foreign students can continue to attend classes while the case moves forward.
The legal matter is still pending. Harvard is still fighting to unfreeze its $2.5 billion in funding and to stop what it says is illegal White House meddling in academic autonomy.
Larger Context: Political Tensions and Campus Protests
The case comes at a time of heightened political sensitivity. Campus protests over the Gaza war have reignited debates about antisemitism and Islamophobia. While the Trump administration accuses Harvard of allowing antisemitism to fester, critics point to its lack of response to anti-Muslim hate.
Harvard’s own task forces found widespread fear and bias affecting both Jewish and Muslim students. Rights advocates warn that the administration’s actions are politically selective and part of a broader trend to silence dissent.
Source: USA Today
