• Harvard students protested against President Trump's decision to cut federal contracts, estimated at $100 million.
• The policy could jeopardize the status of nearly 30% of the student body, composed of international students.
• Protests featured chants like "Trump = traitor" and highlighted fears of deportation for international students.
• Legal experts anticipate that Harvard's ongoing legal challenges may successfully oppose Trump's measures.
• The protest occurred just days before graduation, amplifying concerns among students and alumni.

In a significant display of opposition, hundreds of Harvard University students rallied against President Donald Trump’s administration following its announcement to cancel all remaining financial contracts with the university. This move, which is expected to cost the institution around $100 million, marks Trump's latest effort to exert control over elite academic institutions, which he accuses of fostering liberal biases and antisemitism, according to HuffPost, India Times, TRT World, and Channel News Asia.

The protest drew attention to the uncertainty faced by international students, who make up nearly 30% of Harvard's student body. The administration's actions have upended their ability to remain in the U.S. legally, following the abrupt revocation of the university’s accreditation for the Student and Exchange Visitor Program. "Who belongs in class today? Let them stay!" chanted the crowd, highlighting the stakes for their fellow students. Reports indicate that many international students are now facing deportation or forced transfers, as articulated by attendees during the protest, according to HuffPost, India Times, TRT World, and Channel News Asia.

Students expressed frustration over the administration's punitive measures, which they see as attempts to repress academic independence. Many attendees, like Alice Goyer, a graduating senior, noted the surreal nature of spending graduation week protesting instead of celebrating. "I'm graduating this week, and instead of celebrating, I'm here protesting," Goyer expressed, emphasizing the precarious position facing her international classmates, according to India Times and Channel News Asia.

Legal experts suggest that the Trump administration's actions, which include cutting off billions in federal funding previously awarded to Harvard, are likely to be challenged successfully in court. A restraining order has already been issued, with a full hearing scheduled to coincide with the university's commencement ceremonies. Legal scholar Ray Brescia commented that the case against the administration is strong, indicating that courts may not allow these measures to persist, according to TRT World and Channel News Asia.

The broader implications of Trump’s actions pose risks not just to international students, but also to Harvard's global reputation as an educational leader. Comments from both current students and alumni suggest rising concerns that such policies will deter future applicants from considering U.S. educational institutions. Jack, a graduating student, noted, "The cloud may pass, but the damage is done," illustrating fears about the impact of these policies on the university's attractiveness to prospective students from around the world, according to TRT World and Channel News Asia.