Statement and Press Release, September 9, 2026:
On September 3, 2026, The Treasury and the IRS proposed new regulations that would deny tax-exempt status to any private educational institution that offers any support for minority students, including clubs, athletics, programming, counseling, and scholarships. If adopted, it would take effect June 1, 2027. Coupled with the accreditation threat that could take effect in July 2027, this could effectively hobble Harvard and other universities, constraining independence, chilling academic freedom, and narrowing access to higher education.
Your voice makes a difference: Submit a comment rejecting these changes to the IRS on the proposed regulations by November 3.
» By November 3: Submit a comment to the IRS
This is yet another salvo in the federal government's campaign to control and diminish Harvard.President Trump threatened to remove Harvard's tax-exempt status last spring, after the University refused to accede to his demands. He wrote, "It’s what they deserve!" That effort was thwarted by laws blocking the president from directing the IRS to investigate taxpayers. Having failed under the existing rules, the administration is now seeking to change the rules themselves. This is no surprise, as the government has already tried to force Harvard to its knees using funding freezes, lawsuits, investigations, increased taxes, limits on international students and researchers, and other attacks on institutional independence.
Weaponizing the IRS to punish organizations over political disagreements is oppressive, outrageous, and dangerous to our democracy. The message is clear: any organization of any kind could be targeted for crippling tax changes. The IRS is legally required to be free from political influence, but these regulations make a mockery of that law.
Losing tax-exempt status would have devastating consequences. At Harvard, the University has said it would likely lead to severe cuts in financial aid and medical research. Across the country, many schools would be unable to survive in their current forms.
These regulations would severely reduce opportunities for all students. The Treasury and IRS estimate that the scholarships of about 750,000 students nationwide could be terminated: three-quarters of a million students might be forced to withdraw from the schools of their choice and have their best hopes for learning and advancement dashed. The loss of these voices at Harvard and other schools would hinder all students in their pursuit of free inquiry and engagement with new ideas.
Providing support is an investment in educational opportunity and institutional excellence, not discrimination. Support for minorities can take many forms, such as scholarships from private donors or a room on campus where an affinity group can meet. None of this reduces opportunity for other students.
Harvard must stand strong and resist this dangerous threat. Harvard is a clear target because it is a leader in U.S. higher education. Thus far, its committed resistance to the federal government's incursions—combined with the efforts of alumni, students, and faculty—has not only resulted in victories for Harvard but also been an important and inspiring example for other colleges and universities throughout the country.
The federal government should not use its power over universities' funding to reduce support and opportunities for all students. You can do something crucial to make a difference; please act.
What You Can Do
Make a comment by November 3.
Share this action alert with fellow alumni to make sure they are aware of what is happening and what is at stake.
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