Student Supporter Detained in the USA
Student Activists Detained in the US for Supporting Palestine
Immigration issues have recently come to the forefront in the United States, with Palestinian students facing detention for their activism. One such case is that of Mohsen Mahdawi, a student at Columbia University in New York, who was taken into custody while at the immigration office applying for US citizenship.
Lawyer Luna Droubi has raised concerns about Mahdawi’s detention, stating that it is a violation of his right to freedom of expression. Mahdawi, who has had legal residence in the US for 10 years, has been active in protesting Israel’s attacks in Gaza. However, Droubi’s petition to the Vermont Regional Court highlights that Mahdawi has now been labeled as an activist and organizer, leading to his detention.
Another Palestinian activist, Mahmud Halil, faced a similar fate when he was detained at Columbia University by immigration officials. Despite holding a green card as a legal resident, Halil and his wife were arrested and their green card was canceled. This crackdown on pro-Palestine activists has also affected Turkish student Rümeysa Öztürk, who was detained at TUFT University.
Democratic Senator Peter Welch has criticized the detention of Mahdawi and other student activists, calling it “immoral, inhuman, and unlawful.” He emphasized the need for the detainees to be released and for legal processes to be followed in accordance with the law.
The situation highlights the challenges faced by student activists advocating for Palestinian rights in the US. The crackdown on individuals expressing their views raises questions about freedom of expression and the right to peaceful protest. As Mahdawi and others continue to fight for their rights, the need for protection and support for activists in the face of immigration issues remains crucial.
