10 News a Day: Political Tensions and Changes in U.S. Higher Education and Student Rights

Harvard University Faces Funding Cuts Over Antisemitism and Campus Policies

Source: PBS News

The Trump administration has decided to freeze $2.2 billion in federal grants to Harvard University, citing the institution's handling of antisemitism on campus and its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. Harvard's refusal to comply with demands to change its DEI policies or provide detailed reports has led to this drastic financial action. This freeze could potentially affect various university functions, including resources that support international students. While the direct impact on Chinese students is not specified, the loss of funding could signal instability in the U.S. higher education system, raising concerns for families considering study in the U.S.

Columbia Graduate Student Faces Deportation Over Pro-Palestinian Activism

Source: Diverse Education

A graduate student at Columbia University is facing deportation due to his involvement in pro-Palestinian protests. The U.S. government has ordered his expulsion, alleging that his activism is a threat to U.S. foreign policy interests, specifically citing concerns over antisemitism. This case raises significant issues regarding free speech and assembly rights for international students in the U.S., as well as the broader implications for future activism on college campuses. Chinese students considering studying in the U.S. need to be aware of how political actions could affect their immigration status and safety.

Federal Judge Orders Release of Funding to Maine Amid Dispute Over Transgender Athlete Policies

Source: NPR

A federal judge has ruled in favor of Maine's request to unfreeze federal funding, which was previously withheld due to disagreements between the Trump administration and the state's governor over policies regarding transgender athletes in school sports. The ruling highlights the ongoing tension between federal and state control over educational policies, particularly concerning LGBTQ+ rights. This case underlines how political conflicts can influence educational funding, with significant implications for the students and educators involved in such policies.

Trump Threatens to Revoke Harvard's Tax-Exempt Status

Source: USA Today

The Trump administration has escalated its dispute with Harvard University, threatening to revoke its tax-exempt status. This action comes after the administration demanded changes to Harvard’s governance, admissions policies, and hiring practices. The potential revocation of tax-exempt status could severely affect the university’s financial standing, jeopardizing vital academic programs, including medical research. The broader impact of political pressure on university autonomy and its potential effects on international students' academic experiences could create an unstable environment for higher education.

Trump Administration Pushes for Aggressive Higher Education Reform

Source: Inside Higher Ed

The Trump administration is intensifying efforts to overhaul U.S. higher education, particularly through measures that affect diversity initiatives, the student loan system, and educational policies aligned with conservative ideologies. This push for reform is aligned with Project 2025’s policy recommendations, aiming to curtail the influence of diversity programs and government spending on education. These actions create an uncertain landscape for both domestic and international students, especially as universities struggle to adapt to the shifting policy environment. Chinese students and families need to consider how these changes may impact both university admissions and financial aid processes.

Florida Universities Agree to ICE Campus Police Deals, Raising Concerns About Student Safety

Source: Inside Higher Ed

At least ten public universities in Florida have signed agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) allowing campus police to question and detain individuals suspected of immigration violations. This controversial move has raised significant concerns about the safety and security of international students, especially undocumented individuals. The agreements are seen as increasing the risk of racial profiling and creating a climate of fear on campuses, which could adversely affect international students' academic experiences.

Four International Students Sue U.S. Government Over Illegal Visa Terminations

Source: ABC News

Four international students, including two from China, are suing the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for revoking their student visas without proper notice or explanation. The lawsuit argues that the students’ rights were violated and seeks to restore their legal status, preventing the threat of deportation. This case highlights growing concerns over the treatment of international students and the lack of transparency in the visa revocation process, a critical issue for prospective international students.

Students, Faculty Express Concerns Over Funding Cuts and International Student Arrests

Source: PBS News

Student newspaper editors from top U.S. universities such as the University of Alabama, Columbia University, and the University of Michigan report heightened concern about the federal government's increasing interference with campus life. This includes funding cuts to diversity programs, the safety of international students, and restrictions on activism. These tensions have caused a rift between students and university administrations, leading to distrust and fear of potential retaliation against dissenting voices on campuses.

Concerns Over Special Education Practices in Indiana Schools Highlighted by Legal Action

Source: NPR

A federal civil rights complaint has been filed against an Indiana school after a 12-year-old student with disabilities was repeatedly placed in a "blue room" for seclusion. The case highlights the controversial use of seclusion and restraint in schools, particularly for students with disabilities. The complaint is complicated by a reduction in staff at the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights, which is responsible for investigating such incidents, raising concerns about the ability of parents to advocate effectively for their children’s rights.

Trump Administration Proposes Slashing U.S. State Department Budget, Impacting Global Education Programs

Source: The PIE News

The Trump administration is considering a 50% cut to the U.S. State Department's budget, which could severely impact educational and cultural exchange programs, including the Fulbright Program. This proposal has caused significant concern within the international education community, as it could limit opportunities for U.S. students to study abroad and for international students to study in the U.S. The proposal raises questions about the U.S.'s commitment to fostering global educational exchange and maintaining its influence on the world stage.