Judge blocks government's suspension of Harvard's student visa program

A judge issued a preliminary injunction against the government's suspension of Harvard University's participation in the student visa program, preventing the policy from taking effect. This decision halts the government's attempt to restrict international students' entry. The ruling stems from a lawsuit filed by Harvard, challenging a presidential proclamation. The university argued the proclamation was retaliatory, violating its First Amendment rights after it rejected government demands to alter its policies on faculty, admissions, and DEI programs. The court found the government's actions likely constituted viewpoint-based discrimination. The judge's decision cited concerns about academic freedom and government overreach. The court found the government's actions, including the visa suspension, were likely motivated by Harvard's protected speech and its refusal to comply with the government's demands.