Alan M. Garber, president of Harvard University in the U.S., issued a public letter on April 14, 2025, in response to the federal government's demands to withdraw funding from the institution due to accusations of antisemitism on campus. In the letter, he defends academic autonomy and rejects government demands aimed at regulating the opinions and decisions of the university community.
"We move forward now, as always, with the conviction that the fearless and unrestricted search for truth liberates humanity, and with faith in the enduring promise that American universities hold for our country and our world," Garber expressed in the letter.
The federal government has threatened to withdraw funding from several universities, including Harvard, over accusations of antisemitism. Harvard's administration has made it clear that it will not accept this intrusion into its autonomy. Garber pointed out that the government's demands exceed the legal limits of its authority, violating the university's First Amendment rights.
The letter highlights the importance of freedom of thought and research in universities to contribute to a free and prosperous society. Garber reiterated that Harvard will not yield its independence or relinquish its constitutional rights.
The letter also references innovative scientific and medical developments achieved through collaboration between universities and the government. Garber emphasized that these advancements are made possible by openness to new perspectives and continuous scrutiny of beliefs.
In summary, Alan M. Garber's letter defends Harvard's academic autonomy and rejects the federal government's demands that seek to control the opinions and decisions of the university community. The university is committed to maintaining its dedication to truth and the freedom of research, resisting any attempts of external interference in its educational and scientific work.
