1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

This case raises deeply troubling concerns about infringement of constitutional rights and abuse of government power against dissenting voices. Detaining a student without due process merely for expressing political views is an alarming overreach that undermines cherished American principles of free speech and civil liberties. We must vehemently condemn any attempts to silence or intimidate protesters through extrajudicial tactics reminiscent of authoritarian regimes. While maintaining security is important, the heavy-handed detention and abrupt transfer of Ms. Ozturk seem to flout court orders and exceed reasonable measures. Her arbitrary arrest and lack of access to legal counsel are particularly egregious violations of basic rights we expect to be vigorously protected. Lawful protest and criticism should never provoke such draconian retaliation from the government. Where will this end if we allow this now? Protect the constitution, and the American people by stopping ICE and these Neo-Nazi detainments. I urge you to forcefully denounce these actions, demand full transparency about the grounds for detaining Ms. Ozturk, and ensure all safeguards are in place to prevent further abuses against those exercising their First Amendment freedoms. We cannot allow this incident to escalate tensions or embolden forces seeking to erode our democratic norms through the criminalization of dissent. A full investigation and accountability for any constitutional overreach are vital to upholding the rule of law.