Protest against deportation of Columbia activist in NYC
Protesters from the Jewish group Jewish Voice for Peace gathered in Trump Tower's lobby to oppose the deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University activist. Khalil, a permanent U.S. resident, was arrested without any charges against him. Khalil's arrest has drawn attention as President Trump stated it marks the beginning of more deportations for those he claims engage in anti-American activities. Khalil is currently detained in Louisiana after being arrested outside his New York apartment. Supporters argue that Khalil's arrest threatens free speech. Protests have occurred in various locations, including a recent demonstration outside a Manhattan courthouse. Khalil's wife is pregnant, and he completed his master's degree at Columbia in December.