1. United States
2. Ill.
3. Letter

The sudden arrest and detention of Mahmoud Khalil, a legal permanent resident of the United States, by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials is deeply concerning. Khalil, a graduate student at Columbia University who completed his studies in December, was taken into custody under the false pretext that his student visa had been revoked, despite being a permanent resident. His pregnant wife, a U.S. citizen, was even threatened with arrest. This appears to be a clear violation of Khalil's constitutional rights and an overreach of federal authority. He has been outspoken in protesting the violence in Gaza, but there is no evidence linking him to any terrorist organizations like Hamas. Arresting him for exercising his right to free speech sends a chilling message to all residents, including those with legal status. I urge you to take immediate action to secure Khalil's release and ensure he is afforded due process under the law. His unlawful detention undermines the values of our state and erodes protections for all immigrants, even those who have followed the proper channels. We must stand firm against such excessive federal overreach that targets residents based on their political views or ethnic backgrounds. Defend Khalil's civil liberties and prevent his unfair deportation from our state.