A federal judge in Boston dismissed a civil rights lawsuit filed by the Trump administration against Harvard University on Thursday. The suit accused the Ivy League institution of permitting harassment and violence against Jewish students during campus unrest following events in the Middle East.
U.S. District Judge Richard G. Stearns ruled that the administration failed to demonstrate an ongoing violation of federal civil rights laws. The judge characterized the incidents cited in the lawsuit, which was filed in March and primarily referenced events from the 2023-24 academic year along with a small number from March 2025, as “too isolated and episodic” to constitute a persistent pattern of civil rights violations.
The administration’s case sought to recover billions of dollars in federal research grants awarded to the university since October 2023, arguing it had authority to recoup funds under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The lawsuit claimed Harvard officials failed to prevent Jewish students from being “harassed, physically assaulted, stalked, and spat upon” during demonstrations. Harvard countered that it had taken significant steps to address antisemitism, including forming a task force, hiring new administrative leadership, and reforming disciplinary policies.
Harmeet Dhillon, assistant attorney general for civil rights, stated the department disagreed with the decision and was considering next steps. This lawsuit represents one of several government actions against Harvard following the university’s refusal to comply with White House demands after Trump returned to office. Previously, a federal judge had ordered the administration to reverse more than $2.6 billion in funding cuts to Harvard, finding the White House had imposed unconstitutional conditions on federal support.
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