Harvard University announced on Friday that it has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration in response to new immigration directives affecting international students. The move challenges a policy issued by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that could force international students to leave the country if their courses move entirely online.
In a complaint filed in federal court in Boston, Harvard called the policy change a “blatant violation” of the U.S. Constitution and federal law, stating that it has an “immediate and devastating effect” on the university and its over 5,000 international students holding visas.
“With the stroke of a pen, the government has destabilized the lives of international students who contribute significantly to the university and its mission,” Harvard said. “This policy puts students in an impossible situation, forcing them to choose between their health and their education.”
The new guidelines require international students to take at least one in-person class or face deportation, despite many universities planning to conduct courses online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Harvard argues that the policy is an attempt to pressure schools into reopening campuses without regard for public health concerns.
Harvard is seeking a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction to halt the enforcement of the policy. The university emphasized its commitment to protecting its international students and ensuring they can continue their education without interruption.
The lawsuit highlights the ongoing tension between higher education institutions and the government over immigration policy, particularly during the pandemic. Many fear that the new rules could disrupt the academic careers of thousands of students and harm universities that rely on the contributions of international scholars.
