8legs: Middle east studies association

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Judge warns Trump administration from changing plaintiffs immigration status in First Amendment case

A federal judge allowed noncitizen academics in a pro-Palestinian case to seek relief if their immigration status changes as retaliation for free speech.
Young described the policy as an unconstitutional conspiracy to limit free speech and create a chilling effect on scholars.
The judge said a noncitizen challenging status change must show membership in the two plaintiff groups and current, valid status before Sept. 30, 2025.
The decision comes after evidence showed the government targeted more than 5,000 pro-Palestinian protesters during the campaign.
The court highlighted concerns about retaliation against academics for exercising First Amendment rights.
Judge Ramya Krishnan of the Knight First Amendment Institute commented on the administration's intimidation tactics being 'lawless'.
The ruling indicates potential remedies to protect First Amendment rights for affected academics.
The case has included public figures and university affiliates connected to Tufts and Columbia universities.
The judge criticized high-level officials for not honoring the First Amendment in this conduct.
The court acknowledged the complex path for Khalil’s case through immigration courts before the appellate ruling addressed jurisdiction.

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