Columbia Graduation Marred by Protest: Students Demand Release of Detained Activist

Columbia University Graduation Ceremony Disrupted by "Free Mahmoud" Protest New York, NY – The graduation ceremony at Columbia University on Tuesday took an unexpected turn when students staged a protest, chanting "Free Mahmoud" and disrupting the proceedings. The protest was in response to the ongoing detention of Mahmoud Khalil, a student activist, by US immigration officials. Khalil was detained in March for his participation in pro-Palestinian demonstrations on campus. Students expressed outrage that Khalil, who should have graduated with the class of 2025, remains in ICE detention in Louisiana. "It's unacceptable that Mahmoud is being held while we celebrate our achievements," said one student, who declined to be identified for fear of reprisal. "He should be here with us." The protest highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding Palestinian rights and immigration policies on college campuses. The video shows students chanting and booing President Claire Shipman, who was unable to continue her speech until the protest subsided. The incident underscores the deep divisions surrounding these issues and the determination of students to advocate for their beliefs, even in the face of significant challenges.