1. United States
2. Wisc.
3. Letter

Mahmoud Khalil's arrest and continued detention raise serious First Amendment concerns about freedom of speech and peaceful protest. As a Palestinian activist, he engaged in constitutionally protected activities by voicing criticism of Israeli policies and advocating for Palestinian rights at Columbia University. Revoking his green card status over his political views and advocacy efforts is an alarming overreach that threatens core civil liberties. We must uphold the right to freely express dissenting opinions, even if they clash with government positions. Deporting Khalil would send a chilling message about limiting discourse on contentious issues. Even outspoken right wing pundit Ann Coulter stated, "...but unless they've committed a crime, isn't this a violation of the First Amendment?" This arrest is absolutely a violation of the First Amendment. Trump and his cronies don't have the power to go after these rights only when individuals express a dissenting opinion. The hypocrisy currently on display is astounding. Any threat to the First Amendment is a threat to democracy as a whole. Use your voice and protect our democracy now. I urge prioritizing Khalil's due process rights and immediately releasing him from detention to safeguard cherished freedoms.