On March 8, 2025, Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate student, was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. He was returning to his apartment after dinner with his wife when agents informed him that his student visa and green card had been revoked. Despite never being charged with a crime, Khalil was detained in New Jersey and later moved to Louisiana.
The government cites a specific legal provision allowing them to deport individuals if their presence poses serious foreign policy concerns. Khalil’s involvement in organizing pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia seems to be the basis for the government’s actions.
In a poignant letter, Khalil referred to himself as a "political prisoner," highlighting the serious implications of this case. He has become a key figure in a broader federal crackdown on pro-Palestinian activism in the U.S., especially in academic settings.
Protests against Israel’s actions in Gaza have surged on college campuses. However, much of the media coverage has portrayed these demonstrations in a negative light, labeling participants as violent or extremist. Politicians have echoed this sentiment, with some calling the protests sites of hate and fanatical behavior.
Yet, a new documentary titled The Encampments challenges this narrative. Directed by Kei Pritsker and Michael T Workman, the film showcases the peaceful nature of the protests at Columbia, featuring students sharing meals, singing, and holding respectful religious ceremonies. Pritsker, a former campus activist, remarked on the stark difference between media portrayals and the actual atmosphere on campus during the protests.
Columbia University has a rich history of student activism, notably during the civil rights movement and opposition to the Vietnam War. In 2024, students echoed this legacy by occupying a campus space to protest the university’s financial ties to companies supporting military actions in Palestine. Organizer Sueda Polat highlighted their demand: they don’t want their university’s funds used to contribute to Palestinian suffering.
The film underscores the parallels between past and present protests. It recalls how Columbia students once occupied Hamilton Hall in 1968 to protest the Vietnam War, leading to significant change. This historical context is crucial, especially as students today face similar challenges in making their voices heard.
The recent clampdown on campus protests mirrors tactics used in the past. Police intervention has been heavy, with reports of officers using rubber bullets against protesters. Pritsker observed how universities transformed into police zones, questioning why peaceful protests were met with such aggression.
Experts suggest that increased scrutiny and repression of pro-Palestinian advocacy may reflect broader trends in American politics where dissent is often stifled. A recent survey found that nearly 60% of college students feel that their institutions do not foster an environment where they can freely express political opinions related to Israel and Palestine.
In this climate, Khalil’s case stands out, raising questions about academic freedom and civil rights in the U.S. today. Despite the risk involved, many students remain committed to their cause. “We stand together,” Khalil asserts, emphasizing a collective struggle for justice that transcends personal safety.
While fear lingers among students, there’s also resilience. This spirit of determination is crucial not just for the Palestinian rights movement, but for the future of activism in U.S. institutions. The push for equality and justice continues, even amid challenges.
For further reading on this topic, you can explore more about The Encampments and its depiction of the protests here.
Check out this related article: Why the South Won’t Rise Again: Insights from the Queer Student Association
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