Tufts University is taking a rare stand against the Trump administration by supporting Rümeysa Öztürk, a detained Turkish graduate student whose visa was revoked over alleged pro-Hamas activities. The case highlights growing tensions between universities and the federal government regarding student visa policies amid the ongoing war in Gaza.
Tufts University Challenges Trump Administration Over Detained Student
Tufts University is openly supporting Rümeysa Öztürk, a Turkish graduate student who was detained and is facing deportation after her student visa was revoked by the Trump administration. The university has filed a legal declaration asking a federal judge to release her so she can complete her studies.
Visa Revocations and Student Arrests on the Rise
Since Trump’s second term began, U.S. universities have been under intense scrutiny. The administration has frozen funding, investigated diversity programs, and arrested foreign students allegedly involved in pro-Palestinian protests. Over 300 student visas have reportedly been revoked under new policies.
Öztürk’s Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Öztürk was detained by immigration officers on March 25 near the Tufts campus. A video of her arrest was later shared by the State Department. Tufts officials claim she was in “good immigration standing” before her visa was revoked due to alleged foreign policy concerns. She has been transferred to a detention center in Louisiana, where her legal case is ongoing.
University Leadership Defends Öztürk
Tufts President Sunil Kumar stated that Öztürk is a valued student and that the university has seen widespread support for her among faculty and students. Kumar emphasized that her involvement in a campus op-ed criticizing the university’s response to protests was within school policies.
Trump Administration Justifies Visa Revocations
Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the administration’s crackdown, citing broad powers under the Immigration and Nationality Act to revoke visas of individuals deemed a threat to U.S. foreign policy. Rubio has stated that more than 300 students have had their visas revoked so far.
Impact on Universities and Future Implications
Columbia University has faced similar pressure, resulting in leadership changes and increased campus security. Other universities, such as Dartmouth, have taken steps to align with Republican lawmakers to avoid conflicts. Tufts, however, is taking a stand, signaling potential legal battles over student rights and visa policies.
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