NEW YORK (AP) — Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University student arrested for protesting against Israel, has spoken out while being held in a Louisiana immigration detention center. In a letter released by his attorney, he argues that his arrest highlights ongoing “anti-Palestinian racism” from both the Trump and Biden administrations.
Khalil believes he’s part of a broader effort to silence Palestinian voices. He stated, “My detention reflects the anti-Palestinian racism that has shaped U.S. policies for years.” He links his experience to the historical repression faced by Palestinians, both domestically and abroad.
In court battles, the government has explained his transfer to Louisiana due to overcrowding and a reported bedbug issue at the facility where he was first held in New Jersey. Khalil disputes this claim, stating he didn’t hear any discussions about bedbugs while detained. He expressed fear at the time of being deported, recalling, “I was told we were headed to JFK Airport,” underscoring his anxiety during the transport.
His legal team is pushing for Khalil’s release on bail. They argue that his arrest violates the First Amendment’s protections for free speech and expression. They seek to ensure that noncitizens can engage in protests about Palestinian rights without fear of detention or deportation.
Khalil also reflected on his conditions in detention. He described a waiting room without beds, stating, “We slept on the ground. There were no mattresses or blankets.” This experience, he says, resonates with how many Palestinians experience detention — without due process or fair treatment.
The context of his situation has intensified as violence escalates in Gaza. Khalil noted, “With January’s ceasefire broken, parents in Gaza are once again cradling too-small shrouds.” He called for the continuation of the struggle for Palestinian rights, emphasizing the urgency of the situation for those suffering from violence and displacement.
Recent surveys reveal a growing awareness and activism around Palestinian issues, particularly among younger generations. According to a 2023 poll, nearly 30% of American youth view U.S. support for Israel critically, reflecting a significant shift in public sentiment. This change underscores the importance of discussions about human rights and the implications of U.S. foreign policy.
As Khalil’s case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding free speech, immigration, and international political struggles today. The challenges individuals like him face in making their voices heard point to a larger conversation about justice and representation.
For further details on the broader implications of Khalil’s situation and ongoing protests, you can visit AP News.
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