Harvard Accused of ‘Deliberate Indifference’ to Antisemitism on Campus

Harvard University is under heightened scrutiny following a federal investigation that determined the institution failed to adequately address widespread antisemitic incidents targeting Jewish students.

On Monday, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) released a report concluding that Harvard demonstrated “deliberate indifference” in responding to repeated complaints of harassment, intimidation, and exclusion.

The investigation, conducted by the Joint Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism, documented numerous instances of discrimination. Among them were reports of swastikas etched onto residence hall doors, antisemitic epithets during protests, and student organizations isolating Jewish peers who expressed support for Israel.

In one incident cited by the OCR, a student was threatened and told to “stay quiet if you know what’s good for you” after objecting to antisemitic remarks at a student government meeting.

Despite these and other reports spanning several years, Harvard administrators frequently dismissed the complaints as protected speech or interpersonal disagreements, according to the findings.

“The university’s repeated failure to take prompt and effective action has contributed to an environment where antisemitism is tolerated rather than addressed,” the report stated.

Harvard is already defending itself against multiple lawsuits alleging discriminatory admissions practices. The OCR’s conclusions have now added new pressure to demonstrate accountability and reform.

In a statement issued Tuesday, a university spokesperson rejected the claim of deliberate neglect, affirming that Harvard “unequivocally condemns antisemitism in all its forms” and is committed to improving policies and support systems.

“We take these findings seriously,” the statement read. “Our goal is to ensure that every member of the Harvard community feels safe, respected, and valued.”

The OCR has directed Harvard to develop a comprehensive corrective action plan by the end of the summer. Required measures include clearer reporting procedures, accelerated investigations of bias-related incidents, and mandatory training for faculty and staff. Failure to comply could result in the suspension of federal funding.

“This should be a turning point, not only for Harvard but for institutions across the country,” said Miriam Rosenbaum, spokesperson for the Joint Task Force. “No student should fear discrimination, and no university should be complacent when it occurs.”

For Jewish students and alumni, the coming months will determine whether Harvard’s commitments will finally translate into meaningful change or remain merely statements of intent.