Harvard set to enforce disciplinary measures against students supporting Palestine cause
In late November 2024, four Harvard undergraduates found themselves in the midst of a significant controversy, facing disciplinary action by the Harvard College Administrative Board. The students were involved in a series of protests supporting Palestinian rights, known as the "week of action."
This series of events has stirred up a storm of controversy, with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under the Trump administration accusing Harvard of failing to address antisemitic harassment connected to pro-Palestinian protests. The administration argued that the university allowed foreign students to misuse visa privileges and incited violence on campus, alleging violations of civil rights laws.
The university has responded by engaging in legal disputes, challenging governmental measures as threats to academic freedom and free speech. Reports suggest that a potential settlement with the federal government, costing up to $500 million, was considered, but the university resisted certain conditions, such as allowing an independent third-party to monitor compliance.
The response from students and faculty has been vocal and mixed. Some Harvard alumni in Congress have expressed alarm at the possibility of a settlement influenced by political pressure and pledged to investigate thoroughly. The Harvard chapter of the American Association of University Professors has urged members to oppose any deal that disciplines students harshly for protesting or that permits aggressive information-sharing with the government. They call for protections of protest rights and careful oversight, opposing third-party monitoring except under federal court supervision.
The broader debate revolves around distinguishing between protected political speech and acts of harassment or threats. The federal government's mixing of protected expression with discriminatory actions has complicated enforcement and legal interpretation. Harvard's own task force identified incidents of antisemitism on campus, but the federal government's actions have added a layer of complexity to the situation.
Kojo Acheampong, one of the students facing disciplinary action, stated that the university is trying to attack students but they will not be deterred. The students involved in the pro-Palestine activities view the disciplinary actions as a justification for their struggle.
In mid-November, eight undergraduates affiliated with Harvard Jews for Palestine faced Ad Board hearings after participating in a 24-hour occupation of University Hall. On December 12th, 2023, a rally in support of Palestinians in Gaza was held in Harvard Yard, Cambridge.
The university has not disclosed the specific charges against the students facing disciplinary action. Two of the students, Prince A. Williams and Kojo Acheampong, led and chanted with megaphones during the occupation. Syd D. Sanders, a participant in the "week of action", received a disciplinary case against them more than a week after the demonstrations.
The College Board at Harvard University can result in students receiving warnings, probations, or required withdrawals. The ongoing saga at Harvard is a testament to the complexities of free speech, protest rights, and campus safety in the face of political and social unrest.
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