The Trump administration plans to freeze $510 million in federal grants to Brown University, citing alleged antisemitism linked to pro-Palestinian campus protests, according to a U.S. official. This move is part of a broader crackdown on universities accused of fostering antisemitic environments amid growing unrest over Israel's military actions in Gaza.
Brown University stated it had not received formal notification and was only aware of “troubling rumors” regarding potential federal action. Provost Frank Doyle said the university is monitoring the situation but has no confirmed information to share.
This decision follows earlier actions targeting top institutions. Princeton University recently confirmed the freezing of several dozen research grants, while Harvard University is under review for $9 billion in federal contracts. Last month, Columbia University lost $400 million in funding due to its role in pro-Palestinian protests.
President Trump has accused student protesters of antisemitism and support for Hamas, labeling them as threats to national security. However, protesters—including Jewish and human rights groups—reject the claims, arguing their demonstrations criticize Israel's Gaza offensive and advocate for Palestinian rights, not antisemitism.
The Education Department recently warned 60 universities, including Brown, of possible enforcement actions. The administration has also detained and is working to deport some foreign student protesters.
Critics, including human rights advocates and academic experts, have condemned the moves as violations of free speech and academic freedom. They’ve also raised concerns about increasing Islamophobia and anti-Arab sentiment during the Gaza conflict—issues the administration has not publicly addressed.
The Trump administration has additionally suspended funding to other schools over issues tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion, including $175 million from the University of Pennsylvania over transgender sports policies.