Harvard University released its antisemitism report, admitting that its “politicized instruction” contributed to the campus climate.
The report discussed the university’s historical context, findings from its task forces, and campus recommendations.
Discussing the university’s “direct expressions of antisemitism and anti-Israeli bias,” the report stated that “politicized instruction” was “especially concerning as it often occurs in the context of instruction about Israel/Palestine, a subject of considerable student interest, but one with a shortage, in our view, of high-quality offerings meeting Harvard’s standard for intellectual excellence.”
“Also, such instruction can negatively influence the broader campus climate, creating a knowledge vacuum that allows problematic offerings to unduly shape campus discourse and culture,” the report said.
University President Alan Garber said in a statement accompanying the report that he is “sorry for the moments when we failed to meet the high expectations we rightfully set for our community.”
“The deans are reviewing recommendations concerning admissions, appointments, curriculum, and orientation and training programs, including those organized by recognized student groups, as they move toward implementation,” he added.
Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) urged the university to take stronger action in addressing its rise in antisemitic demonstrations and protests, saying in a statement, “Harvard’s own task force reveals longtime, deep-rooted, dangerous, & rampant antisemitism embedded in coursework, campus life, and faculty hiring.”
“This is further confirmation of the significant moral crisis facing higher education that I have sounded the alarm on in Congress,” she said. “There must be accountability and real reform to save American higher education — not just reports.”
Harvard University is also involved in a lawsuit against the Trump administration surrounding the freeze of billions of dollars in federal grants.
