The Trump administration sent a letter to the University of Michigan, among other schools, threatening to withhold federal funding unless stronger measures are implemented to combat antisemitism. The letter follows a series of civil rights complaints and reflects ongoing campus tensions, including protests and concerns over discrimination against both Jewish and Muslim communities. U-M has stated it is reviewing the letter and remains committed to providing a safe, non-discriminatory environment.

The University of Michigan suspended a pro-Palestinian group for two years, issued broad trespass bans to protesters, and arrested a student using a megaphone during a protest. The ACLU has filed a lawsuit alleging that these actions violate free speech rights and abuse authority on campus.

At a University of Michigan campus, part of the Michigan Public Universities network, two student government leaders were impeached following a prolonged judicial hearing after they led efforts to block funding for campus groups involved in debates over divestment from companies linked to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The incident has sparked debate over the balance between free speech and what some view as authoritarian suppression of politically engaged voices on campus.

An analysis by The Michigan Daily revealed that over 294,000 donations from University of Michigan employees and students overwhelmingly support Democratic candidates, with 94% of contributions going to Democrats. This trend, observed over several election cycles, underscores the progressive political leaning of the university community, reflecting an indirect but significant anti-authoritarian stance.

The University of Michigan's board of regents unanimously approved a new institutional neutrality policy that restricts official comment on social and political issues not directly related to internal governance, sparking concerns among some faculty about a chilling effect on academic discourse.

The University of Michigan, as part of Michigan Public Universities, participated in the annual Fair Labor Association spring board meeting on April 3, 2024, where members shared best practices and social compliance resources. This involvement underscores a commitment to advancing fair labor practices and human rights.

Michigan Public Universities, as a member of the Worker Rights Consortium, has adopted a rigorous Code of Conduct that mandates ethical labor practices among its licensees. The policy outlines adherence to fair wages, regulated working hours, safe and healthy working conditions, and non-discriminatory practices, reflecting a strong commitment to protecting workers' rights.

The University of Michigan, part of the Michigan Public Universities system, has actively engaged in lobbying efforts to secure federal research funding and advocate for enhanced Pell Grant awards. In 2020, the University spent $410,000 on lobbying activities and benefited from significant federal research allocations, with leadership maintaining close relationships with policymakers at multiple levels.

On February 16, 2001, the University of Michigan adopted a strong Code of Conduct for licensees, establishing fair and lawful labor practices in the manufacture of university-licensed goods. This policy, along with ongoing oversight mechanisms and recommendations by the ACLSHR, reinforces the commitment to protecting worker rights and ensuring ethical supply chain practices.