An immigration judge has blocked the Trump administration’s attempt to deport Mohsen Mahdawi, a Columbia University graduate student detained last April for his support of Palestinian rights. Mahdawi, a green card holder who grew up in a refugee camp in the occupied West Bank, as well serves as co-president of the Palestinian Students Union and president of the Columbia University Buddhist Association.
Immigration Judge Blocks Deportation
Mahdawi was detained by masked and hooded ICE agents while attending what he believed was a naturalization interview in Vermont. He spent two weeks in ICE custody before Judge Geoffrey Crawford ordered his release. Judge Crawford noted that the nation had faced similar periods of heightened scrutiny in the past, referencing the Red Scare and Palmer Raids of 1919-1920, and the McCarthy period in the 1950s.
Mahdawi is one of several international students targeted by the Trump administration for expressing solidarity with Palestinians and opposing the war in Gaza. The judge, Nina Froes, determined that a key document used in the case – a memo by Marco Rubio – was unauthenticated.
Checks and Balances
Mahdawi explained the distinction between immigration and federal courts, noting that the U.S. System of checks and balances, envisioned by founding father Alexander Hamilton, aims to separate the executive and judicial branches. He emphasized that even though immigration judges are part of the executive branch, they are still bound by the rules of law.
Following his release from ICE custody, Mahdawi publicly stated, “I am saying it clear and loud to President Trump and his cabinet—I am not afraid of you.” He described the Trump administration’s tactics as attempts to intimidate and silence those who speak out.
Activism and Upbringing
Mahdawi connected his upbringing in a refugee camp in the occupied West Bank and his faith to his activism, stating that his work is guided by “love, compassion, and empathy.” He and other students are focused on achieving divestment, boycott, and sanctions as a means to bring peace and justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the basis of the judge’s ruling?
The judge found that a memo by Marco Rubio, used as a key document in the case against Mohsen Mahdawi, was unauthenticated.
What is the difference between an immigration judge and a federal judge?
According to Mohsen Mahdawi, federal courts are part of the system of checks and balances designed to separate the executive and judicial branches of the U.S. Government.
What is Mohsen Mahdawi’s message to the Trump administration?
Mohsen Mahdawi stated, “I am saying it clear and loud to President Trump and his cabinet—I am not afraid of you.”
As this case moves forward, will the judge’s finding regarding the unauthenticated memo be applied to other students facing similar deportation proceedings?
