1. United States
2. Ga.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the recent detention of Mahmoud Khalil, a legal permanent resident and Palestinian activist, by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This incident raises significant questions about the detention of legal permanent residents who have not been charged with a crime, and its implications for our nation's commitment to civil liberties and free speech. Mr. Khalil, a graduate of Columbia University's School of International and Public Affairs, has been an active participant in pro-Palestinian activism on campus. On March 8, 2025, ICE agents arrested him at his university-owned apartment in Manhattan, alleging that he "led activities aligned to Hamas, a designated terrorist organization." Notably, Mr. Khalil holds a green card and has no criminal charges against him. The circumstances of his arrest are particularly troubling. Reports indicate that ICE agents initially intended to revoke his student visa but, upon discovering his permanent resident status, proceeded to revoke his green card instead. His wife, a U.S. citizen who is eight months pregnant, was present during the arrest and was reportedly threatened with detention. Furthermore, Mr. Khalil has been transferred to a detention facility in Louisiana, far from his family and legal counsel. This action has been widely condemned by civil rights organizations, free speech advocates, and members of the legal community. Critics argue that targeting individuals based on their political activism sets a dangerous precedent and infringes upon First Amendment rights. The New York Civil Liberties Union and the Knight First Amendment Institute have likened this arrest to McCarthy-era tactics, warning of its chilling effect on free speech and academic freedom. The detention of legal permanent residents without criminal charges undermines the principles of due process and equal protection under the law. It is imperative that our immigration enforcement practices do not violate constitutional rights or suppress lawful political expression. I urge you to: 1. Investigate the circumstances surrounding Mr. Khalil's detention to ensure that his constitutional rights are upheld. 2. Review current ICE practices concerning the detention of legal permanent residents without criminal charges to prevent potential abuses of power. 3. Advocate for policies that protect individuals' rights to free speech and political activism without fear of unwarranted detention or deportation. Our nation's commitment to civil liberties and justice must remain steadfast, even in complex and challenging times. I trust you will take these concerns seriously and act to uphold the rights enshrined in our Constitution. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.