Harvard apologizes for campus hate, pledges reforms

Harvard University President Alan Garber has issued a rare public apology for the rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia on campus following Israel’s genocide in Palestine.

In an open letter to students and staff, Garber described the past academic year as disappointing and painful.

He cited disturbing incidents that left many students feeling targeted or excluded based on their identity or beliefs.

Garber admitted that Muslim, Arab, and Palestinian students reported being judged and silenced.

He also acknowledged that Jewish, Israeli, and Zionist students felt unwelcome, with some concealing their identities out of fear.

He said these tensions were deepened by perceived one-sided academic discussions and polarized protests.

Two presidential task forces were launched to investigate hate incidents and improve campus climate.

Garber pledged to use their findings to ensure safety, dignity, and respectful dialogue across the university.

Highlighting the damaging role of social media in fueling division, Garber called for renewed empathy and mutual respect.

He said Harvard cannot — and will not — abide bigotry, promising new policies, training, and reforms to rebuild trust and foster inclusion for all students.