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Protesters Rally in Times Square Demanding Release of Columbia Student
Demonstrators advocating for Palestinian rights gathered in Times Square on Saturday evening to protest the detention and potential deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate student. The demonstration highlights ongoing tensions surrounding campus activism and immigration policies.
Rainy Protest for Mahmoud Khalil’s Freedom
Despite inclement weather, vocal supporters of Khalil assembled in Midtown Manhattan, chanting slogans and displaying signs. Messages such as “Free Mahmoud Khalil Now!” and “Hands Off Our Students” were prominent among the signs carried by participants. The demonstrators voiced their opposition to Khalil’s detention and the immigration court’s ruling.
Linda Sarsour Addresses Demonstrators
Activist Linda Sarsour, known for her advocacy on Palestinian issues, addressed the crowd, galvanizing support for the former Columbia student. Sarsour’s presence underscored the broader political context surrounding Khalil’s case and the ongoing debate over free speech and immigration enforcement.
Deportation Order Based on Campus Activism
On Friday, Judge Jamee Comans, a Louisiana immigration judge, issued a ruling permitting the Trump administration to deport Khalil, who is Syrian-born. The decision stems from Khalil’s involvement in protests at Columbia University in 2024 concerning Israeli policies. The ruling has sparked controversy and legal challenges.
Lawyers Emphasize Free Speech Concerns
Khalil’s legal representatives strongly criticized the deportation order, emphasizing the implications for freedom of expression. They contend that the case raises critical questions about the balance between immigration enforcement and constitutional rights, particularly the right to protest.
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Constitutional Rights Argument
“Our constitution protects the right of individuals to express their opinions,” stated Marc van der Hout, Khalil’s lawyer, following the ruling. He drew a parallel to other groups with controversial views, arguing: “Even groups espousing hateful ideologies are afforded the right to demonstrate and express their beliefs – a right being denied to Mahmoud Khalil.”
ICE Arrest and Visa Revocation
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents apprehended the former Columbia University graduate student on March 8 within the lobby of his university-provided apartment building in Manhattan. Authorities stated that Khalil’s student visa was revoked due to his political activities on campus, leading to his detention for being in the country without legal authorization.
Khalil’s Role in Columbia Protests
Khalil was reportedly a prominent figure in the Columbia University protests in 2024. He served as a key negotiator and representative for student demonstrators who established encampments on the university’s Morningside Heights campus. His involvement in these protests is central to the government’s case for deportation.
Secretary Rubio’s Letter as Key Evidence
A letter from Secretary of State Marco Rubio was presented as crucial evidence in the Trump administration’s case against Khalil. This two-page letter reportedly outlines the justification for Khalil’s deportation based on national security and foreign policy considerations.
National Security and Foreign Policy Concerns
In his letter, Secretary Rubio asserted that Khalil’s continued presence in the United States presents “potentially serious adverse foreign consequences and would undermine a vital US foreign policy interest.” The letter further claims that U.S. policy includes “combating antisemitism globally and within the United States, alongside efforts to safeguard Jewish students from harassment and violence in the United States.”