Federal Complaint Filed Against Harvard Over Race-Restricted Scholarship Program
Cambridge, MA - A new federal civil rights complaint has been filed against Harvard University, alleging that the institution unlawfully supported a race-restricted scholarship program in violation of federal nondiscrimination laws. The filing adds new pressure to universities as legal challenges increasingly target diversity-focused programs beyond admissions.
What the Complaint Says
On December 7, 2025, the watchdog organization Equal Protection Project submitted a complaint to the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office for Civil Rights. The filing argues that Harvard promoted and assisted the Union Scholars Program, a scholarship administered by the labor union AFSCME. The program limits eligibility to “students of color” and individuals from “historically marginalized communities,” criteria that the complaint says violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits race-based discrimination at institutions receiving federal funding.
Although Harvard does not directly run the program, the complaint argues that its involvement, including promoting the scholarship and hosting orientation activities, places the university within the scope of Title VI compliance.
Why It Matters Now
This complaint comes during a period of heightened scrutiny following the 2023 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, which struck down the use of race in college admissions. Since the ruling, advocacy groups have increasingly turned their attention to scholarships, internships, and academic support programs that incorporate race-conscious eligibility criteria.
The complaint against Harvard is one of the first major tests of whether institutions can continue participating in or promoting such programs without violating federal civil rights laws.
Potential Impact on Harvard and Other Institutions
If the Department of Justice moves forward with an investigation, Harvard may be required to revise or withdraw its involvement in the Union Scholars Program. Although Title VI violations rarely lead to the loss of federal funding, the law grants regulators authority to impose significant penalties if discrimination is found.
Many colleges across the United States currently offer scholarships or academic support programs aimed at underrepresented groups. A federal finding against Harvard could push institutions to reevaluate eligibility policies, adopt race-neutral language, or redesign programs to avoid legal risk. Some universities have already begun revising scholarship descriptions and application criteria in response to similar challenges nationwide.
Legal analysts note that the outcome of this complaint may influence how diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts are implemented across higher education in the coming years.
What Happens Next
The Department of Justice will review the complaint to determine whether a formal investigation should proceed. Neither Harvard nor AFSCME has issued a detailed public response. Additional filings or updates from the Office for Civil Rights may follow as the review process continues.
EduPulse will continue to monitor developments as the case evolves.
