The Trump administration has launched an investigation into Harvard University’s law journal, the Harvard Law Review, focusing on how it treats white contributors. This action was announced by the Education Department and the Department of Health and Human Services. They are looking into claims that the journal is making decisions based on race rather than the quality of the work submitted.
The investigation comes in the wake of reports suggesting the Harvard Law Review has been evaluating membership and article publication with a racial bias. Craig Trainor, Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, stated that federal law prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in institutions receiving federal funds. He emphasized that no institution, regardless of its prestige, is above the law.
Specific concerns were raised about comments made by an editor at the Harvard Law Review, who expressed discomfort over the racial makeup of contributors responding to an article on police reform. Another editor reportedly suggested that a submission should be expedited because the author was a minority. These statements have drawn scrutiny from the administration.
Anthony Archeval, acting Director of the HHS Office for Civil Rights, highlighted the importance of merit in law journal membership and publication. He argued that these opportunities should be based on merit, not race, as they play a crucial role in shaping students’ careers and legal scholarship.
This investigation is part of a broader conflict between the Trump administration and Harvard regarding the university’s diversity and inclusion policies. Earlier this month, the administration froze $2.2 billion in grants and $60 million in contracts to Harvard. President Trump has publicly criticized the university, labeling it a “Far Left Institution” and claiming it poses a threat to democracy.
As the investigation unfolds, it raises significant questions about the balance between diversity initiatives and merit-based evaluation in academic settings.