In a dramatic showdown between the Trump administration and one of the world’s most prestigious universities, $2.2 billion in federal grants to Harvard has been frozen—and the future of nearly $9 billion more hangs in the balance.

The reason? Harvard flat-out refused demands to eliminate its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and screen international students for ideological beliefs—moves the Trump administration claims are necessary to fight antisemitism on campus.

Now, Harvard is fighting back.

“Harvard will not surrender its independence,” declared interim President Alan Garber, slamming the administration’s attempt to influence what private universities teach and who they accept.

The White House, however, isn’t backing down. A spokesperson cited Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, saying any school that violates it is “by law, not eligible for federal funding.“

This bold move by Trump’s team could reshape how colleges nationwide handle DEI and foreign student policies—and Harvard’s $53 billion endowment may be the only thing standing between the university and a financial meltdown.

Will Harvard cave under pressure, or is this the beginning of a historic legal battle that could redefine higher education in America?

Stay tuned.