Court Temporarily Stops Trump from Preventing Harvard Students from Receiving Visas

A federal judge has temporarily blocked President Donald Trump’s recent efforts to deny visas for foreign students planning to attend Harvard University, following a legal challenge filed by the institution. U.S. District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs issued a temporary restraining order preventing the implementation of Trump’s proclamation issued just a day prior, which sought to restrict foreign student visas specifically for those entering Harvard. In a swift response, Harvard amended its legal complaint against the Trump administration to contest the provisions included in the presidential proclamation. Harvard President Alan M. Garber accused the administration of retaliating against the university for its refusal to comply with various demands, which included auditing the ideological perspectives of its student body.

He expressed that such actions were illegal steps taken in response to Harvard’s commitment to fostering a diverse and global educational environment. Judge Burroughs has also extended a previous restraining order that blocks the revocation of Harvard’s ability to enroll foreign students, underscoring her intention to maintain the status quo while the case is heard. Trump’s proclamation is not only focused on future students but also calls for a review of the visas held by existing foreign students studying at Harvard. Harvard claims that the actions taken by the Trump administration infringe on its First Amendment rights, arguing that the government’s maneuvers constitute a targeted attack on the institution for exercising its autonomy.

The university contends that Trump’s order misinterprets immigration law and acts more as a vendetta than a justification based on national interests. In light of these developments, Garber reaffirmed Harvard’s commitment to supporting its international student community, emphasizing their significant contributions to the university’s mission and the broader society.