We are writing to you about the Crimson Courage Webinar held on Tuesday, May 27, 2025. Here's a link to watch and share the video on YouTube . Read on to learn more about how you can join us in defending academic freedom.

Harvard and higher education are under attack. We applaud Harvard for standing strong not only for itself but also for institutions of higher learning nationwide. Higher education and academic freedom are pillars supporting democracy and must be preserved. 

5,350 of you registered—an impressive number that demonstrates broad support—we hope you found the wide array of important voices supporting Harvard both informative and inspiring.

It is important to note that we at Crimson Courage are aware that Trump’s early threats already led to some unfortunate decisions at Harvard, and we urge the administration to remain open to revisiting any actions it’s taken to date not mandated by law while fiercely fighting to uphold its core values. It is a fight to preserve not only higher education but also Constitutional rights on campus.

Now it is time to focus on actions alumni can take to make a difference. Here are three strands of work beginning immediately:

First and most immediately, please sign onto the amicus brief from Harvard Alumni being filed in support of Harvard, in its lawsuit challenging the U.S Government’s attack on Harvard’s academic freedom and constitutional rights. Signatures are due by June 7th at noon EDT.

Second, please join our volunteer efforts by filling out the Crimson Courage volunteer signup form. We have many activities planned and we need your help. And you can register here to attend the in-person Crimson Courage Alumni Day Forum on June 6.

Third, on our website, you will find a link to donate to the Presidential Priorities Fund launched by the University to support Harvard as needed through this crisis. Using this link will let Harvard know you are giving as part of Crimson Courage and donations will go directly to the fund President Garber has told us is the most versatile and thus most useful to the university as a whole.

Fourth, share this email and the webinar video link with others in your alumni network who may be interested in knowing about and participating in our efforts. You can use this toolkit to share the amicus brief on social media (please remember that signatures must be received by noon EDT on June 7th to be included).

The power we wield as an alumni community is significant and vital to an independent Harvard. Our university is older than this nation, and by addressing this crisis as an opportunity, we can help Harvard be true to its mission and values and stay the world leader it is today. Finally, as important as Harvard is, we encourage all alumni to pay attention to any and all actions by the federal administration that erode public trust, and the rule of law.

Thanks so much for your support of Harvard and of Crimson Courage.

The Crimson Courage Leadership Team