Harvard Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Antisemitism

A U.S. judge has allowed a lawsuit to proceed where Jewish students accuse Harvard University of fostering antisemitism. The students allege inadequate responses to harassment, selective enforcement of anti-discrimination policies, and hiring staff who spread antisemitic propaganda. The lawsuit seeks an injunction under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Harvard University has failed to dismiss a lawsuit in which Jewish students accuse the Ivy League institution of becoming a hub of antisemitism, according to a recent ruling by U.S. District Judge Richard Stearns.

The judge stated that the plaintiffs had plausibly alleged that Harvard's response to on-campus antisemitic incidents was insufficient, adding, "the facts as pled show that Harvard failed its Jewish students." He expressed skepticism over Harvard's defense that some on-campus activities fell under the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment.

Filed in January, the lawsuit claims Harvard selectively enforced anti-discrimination policies, ignored pleas for protection, and hired professors who promoted anti-Jewish violence and propaganda. An injunction is sought to halt alleged violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, and national origin for federally funded institutions. This legal action comes shortly after former Harvard President Claudine Gay's resignation, following criticism over her handling of antisemitism and plagiarism allegations.

(With inputs from agencies.)