Analysts: Trump’s action on Harvard, Columbia could have implications for religious groups

WASHINGTON (OSV News) — Some of the steps the Trump administration has taken toward secular universities could also have long-term implications for religious universities and organizations, analysts told OSV News.

The Trump administration has targeted some of the nation’s top higher education institutions including Harvard and Columbia, alleging those universities failed to respond to antisemitic incidents during pro-Palestinian student demonstrations on campuses in the wake of Israel’s response to Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attacks.

Among other actions, Trump has sought to require Harvard to submit to a federal audit of its hiring. Trump has also indicated he would like to rescind the university’s tax-exempt status, prompting concern from other nonprofits.

Some charities and nonprofits are e