Mahmoud Khalil, a recently released graduate student from Columbia University, spoke publicly on the steps of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City after spending 104 days in an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Louisiana. Khalil, a Palestinian human rights defender, criticized Columbia for denying him space to hold a press conference, highlighting the university’s hypocrisy given its recent proclamations about supporting international students.
During his detainment, Khalil experienced harsh conditions and observed the emotional struggles of fellow detainees, noting the environment’s lack of privacy and the uncertain fate of those imprisoned. His release followed a federal judge’s ruling that deemed him neither a threat nor a flight risk, although this decision was quickly appealed by the White House.
Khalil missed the birth of his son while in detention, a poignant reminder of the personal toll of his situation. His wife, Noor Abdalla, expressed pride in his resilience, stating, “You may have taken time from us, but you did not take our spirit.” Khalil emphasized that his release, while significant, marks only the beginning of a larger struggle for justice, stating, “This is not a victory.”
He warned that the Trump administration’s efforts to silence pro-Palestinian activism were attempts to repress movements for liberation. Khalil encouraged students to continue advocating for their beliefs, drawing parallels to historical protests during the Vietnam War and apartheid South Africa. After the press conference, he joined supporters in a march, embodying the message of persistence and hope in the face of adversity.
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