Former President Barack Obama has broken with his usual practice of staying out of current political debates to publicly denounce President Trump's decision to freeze federal funding to Harvard University. Obama called the freeze 'unlawful' in a statement released on social media.
This is a notable departure for Obama, who has generally avoided criticizing sitting presidents or their policies since leaving office. His statement signals the seriousness with which he views the Trump administration's action against Harvard.
The dispute revolves around President Trump's recent executive order that restricts federal funding to universities and colleges deemed to be engaging in discriminatory practices. Harvard is reportedly challenging the order, arguing that it unfairly targets the institution and violates principles of academic freedom.
Obama's statement praised Harvard's decision to challenge the funding freeze, stating that the university is 'standing up for the principles of fairness and equality.' He added that the freeze is not only 'unlawful' but also 'damaging to the pursuit of knowledge and innovation.' The former president's intervention adds significant weight to the ongoing debate surrounding the funding freeze and its potential impact on higher education.
Obama Criticizes Trump's Harvard Funding Freeze as 'Unlawful'
Former President Barack Obama has publicly criticized President Trump's decision to freeze federal funding to Harvard University, calling the move 'unlawful.' This marks a departure from Obama's usual practice of refraining from commenting on current political leaders or policies. Obama expressed his support for Harvard's stance in challenging the funding freeze. The dispute centers on the legality of the funding restrictions imposed by the Trump administration.
Source: Read the original article at BBC