Obama, a Harvard Alumnus, Criticizes Trump’s ‘Illegal Oppression’

Former President Barack Obama, a Harvard Law School graduate, has criticized the Trump administration’s policies towards Harvard University as ‘illegal oppression’. This comes amid ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and Harvard over various issues.

Obama’s Statement

Obama posted on X (formerly Twitter) stating, ‘Harvard is setting an example for other higher education institutions by rejecting illegal and harsh attempts to suppress academic freedom, while taking concrete steps to ensure all Harvard students benefit from an environment of intellectual inquiry, vigorous debate, and mutual respect.’ 👏

Context of the Criticism

Obama’s remarks support Harvard’s stance against the Trump administration’s demands to combat anti-Semitism on campus. Harvard President Alan Garber has refused to implement policy changes demanded by the Trump administration in exchange for maintaining federal funding.

Garber’s Defense of Harvard’s Independence

President Garber stated that the Trump administration’s demands exceeded previous conditions and indicated a lack of genuine intent to cooperatively address anti-Semitism. He emphasized that the university would not compromise its independence or constitutionally guaranteed rights. 🤔

Trump’s Response

In response to Harvard’s refusal to change its policies, Trump has frozen $2.2 billion in subsidies and threatened to revoke the university’s tax-exempt status. 😲

Background on Alan Garber

Alan Garber, who is Jewish, previously raised concerns about Harvard’s initial response to the Hamas attack on Israel, criticizing the university’s statement for not being strong enough in condemning Hamas’s actions. 😮

Political Implications

Politico notes that Garber’s resistance to Trump is seen as exemplary by many in the Democratic party and within the Harvard community, even though he may not be a natural leader of resistance. 👍