Dean Khurana Says Harvard Should Not Operate From Fear
PICTURE CREDIT JINA H. CHOE
India-West News Desk
BOSTON, MA – In a recent interview with Harvard Crimson, outgoing Harvard College Dean Rakesh Khurana emphasized the vital role of diversity at the university, countering President Donald Trump‘s ongoing opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. Khurana asserted that diverse backgrounds, experiences, and talents are fundamental to academic excellence.
While refraining from directly mentioning Trump, Khurana framed the president’s attacks on research funding and DEI initiatives as contrary to Harvard’s core values. “Diverse thinking actually creates fertile ground for new ideas,” he stated, reflecting on the importance of inclusivity in fostering innovation.
Trump’s administration has taken significant steps against DEI efforts since he took office, including a directive aimed at terminating equity-related grants and scrutinizing federally funded institutions’ DEI initiatives. These actions were temporarily halted by a federal judge on February 23. Khurana criticized this systematic push to dismantle DEI programs, highlighting the detrimental impact it could have on institutions like Harvard.
The administration’s restrictions also extend to financial support for university research, labeling significant portions of federal spending as wasteful. In response, Khurana defended federal research funding, asserting that it is essential for Harvard to create meaningful societal value. “When we want to do something, or we want to do it in a sustainable way, we need to allocate material resources to it,” he said.
Khurana expressed concern to the Harvard Crimson that the public may undervalue Harvard’s contributions, stating, “I do worry, because I do think that institutions like ours produce a lot of good for the world.” He highlighted the complexity and long-term nature of research, emphasizing the importance of continued investment in academia for global competitiveness and the well-being of democracy.
The dean also addressed the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration policies, including a recent order aimed at revoking visas for students involved in pro-Palestine protests. He noted that international students are facing a “fluid” environment amidst political uncertainty.
Khurana called for the university to remain steadfast in its values, insisting to the Harvard Crimson, “We should not be an institution that operates out of fear, but operates out of a sense of conviction that the truth is important.” He concluded by expressing gratitude for Harvard’s role as a beacon of hope and enlightenment, stating, “It’s always served as a candle in the darkness.”
