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DOJ sues Harvard for withholding admissions data, alleging discrimination in latest escalation
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DOJ sues Harvard for withholding admissions data, alleging discrimination in latest escalation

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The USA Ministry of Justice (DOJ) has filed a lawsuit against Harvard University Friday, accusing the Ivy League institution of unlawfully withholding crucial admissions data.

According to the DOJ, this information is needed to determine whether the university continues to engage in discriminatory practices in its admissions process following the Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling in Students for Fair Admissions v. President and Fellows of Harvard College.

Attorney General Pamela Bondi stated: “Harvard has failed to release the data we need to ensure admissions are free from discrimination – we will continue to fight to put merit over DEI across America.”

Harvard did not immediately respond to Benzinga’s request for comment.

Allegations of violations of Title VI

The lawsuit alleges that Harvard deliberately delayed providing required documents and refused to provide requested information, including individual applicants’ admissions records, admissions policies, and correspondence regarding race, ethnicity, diversity, equity, inclusion, and Students for Fair Admissions.

The DOJ stated that Harvard, despite receiving federal funding, allegedly violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in programs receiving federal assistance, by failing to comply with the department’s request for sufficient documents for a compliance review.

According to the DOJ, the lawsuit seeks to force Harvard to produce documents related to the consideration of race in admissions and does not allege that Harvard engaged in racial discrimination.

The Trump administration’s actions against Harvard

This lawsuit is the latest in a series of actions the Trump administration has taken against Harvard.

Earlier this month, the Pentagon announced the termination of all military training programs, fellowships and certificate courses at the oldest institution of higher education in the US.