Over 12,000 Harvard Alumni Defend Higher Education Against Trump's Cuts and Attacks
Over 12,000 Harvard alumni have united to defend higher education against President Trump's proposed cuts and attacks on student loans. The alumni signed an amicus brief, highlighting the potential impact on students and institutions nationwide.
Trump's budget proposals target various education sectors. For community colleges, the budget suggests eliminating Perkins Act funding, approximately $400 million, which supports student financial aid and institutional programs for student loans.
The 'Big Beautiful Bill' aims to raise the credit-hour threshold for Pell Grant eligibility. This could strip aid from around 400,000 students annually, many of whom are low-income and first-generation learners relying on student loans.
Immigrants play a significant role in U.S. industries. In 2024, they constituted over 30% of construction trades workers and 20% of manufacturing workers. Yet, Trump's administration has revoked awards from six Tech Hubs, including projects in Alabama, Idaho, and Vermont, which support workforce development and innovation related to student loans.
Trump threatened to withdraw $3 billion in grant money from Harvard, suggesting it be given to 'trade schools'. However, his accusation of Harvard being 'very antisemitic' is baseless and hypocritical.
Trump's proposed cuts and attacks on higher education, particularly targeting student loans, could disproportionately affect vulnerable students and institutions. The alumni's amicus brief underscores the potential harm to students and the economy, while Trump's baseless accusations and threats to redirect funds raise concerns about political motivations.
