Following public outcry and a Guardian exposé revealing misconduct, the University of Michigan terminated its contract with City Shield, a private security firm, for undercover surveillance of pro-Palestinian student groups. The university president acknowledged the investigators’ actions violated university values and directives, stating that no one should be targeted for their beliefs. At least $800,000 was paid to City Shield between June 2023 and September 2024, with some evidence collected used to charge and jail students. While the university president claims no targeting occurred, critics argue the surveillance solely focused on pro-Palestinian activists.
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The University of Michigan employed private investigators from City Shield to conduct extensive surveillance of pro-Palestinian student groups, including following, recording, and eavesdropping on students on and off campus. These tactics, which involved intimidation and even physical threats, resulted in at least $800,000 in university spending and were used to support charges against students, most of which were later dropped. The university denies targeting students based on beliefs, but the surveillance escalated following police raids and has created a chilling effect on free speech. This extensive security operation, including undercover and overt measures, cost the university millions of dollars.
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More than 25 protesters were arrested after taking over a University of Washington building. The occupation, fueled by demands for the university to sever ties with Boeing, sparked a heated debate across various online platforms. The protesters’ actions, however, were not universally supported, with many questioning their tactics and timing.
The incident prompted considerable online discussion, with many criticizing the protesters’ methods. Some questioned the efficacy of occupying a building, suggesting it would likely result in arrests and hinder future opportunities without achieving meaningful change. The sentiment was that such disruptive actions could overshadow the core message and alienate potential allies.… Continue reading
A federal judge in Vermont ordered the immediate release of Mohsen Mahdawi, a Columbia University student and lawful permanent resident, who had been arrested during his citizenship interview. Mahdawi, who had been detained by federal agents for protesting Israel’s war in Gaza, successfully challenged the constitutionality of his arrest and detention, arguing it violated his First Amendment rights. His release marks a victory against the Trump administration’s targeting of student activists, though other similar cases remain pending. The government’s actions were described by his legal team as baseless and a disgrace to the U.S. Constitution.
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A Georgetown Law student-created spreadsheet tracking law firms’ responses to the Trump administration’s actions has significantly impacted legal recruitment. Categorizing over 800 firms based on their actions, the spreadsheet influences student choices, with some rejecting lucrative offers from firms deemed to have “caved” to the administration. This unexpected outcome has led firms to lobby for changes to their classifications within the spreadsheet. The document, initially intended for internal use, now plays a key role in students’ decisions regarding internships and employment.
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Rumeysa Ozturk, a Turkish PhD student at Tufts University, was abducted by masked agents and subsequently rendered to a Louisiana detention center. Her “crime” was co-authoring a student op-ed criticizing her university’s stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict a year prior. This incident represents a chilling escalation of government overreach, targeting individuals for their political expression without due process. The Trump administration’s actions, including similar renditions of others, constitute a grave threat to freedom of speech and personal liberty on college campuses and beyond. This blatant disregard for fundamental rights demands immediate action and widespread condemnation.
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I can’t fathom the reasoning behind the recent events where protesters at Columbia University have taken over a building after defying a deadline. The entire situation seems to be spiraling out of control, with students engaging in acts of defiance and vandalism that not only disrupt the normal functioning of the university but also reflect poorly on their own academic journey.
The decision to occupy Hamilton Hall, a building that holds historical significance due to past protests in 1968, seems misguided when considering the nature of the current issue. The demands for divestment from Israel and standing in solidarity with Gaza appear to lack a coherent strategy and feasibility.… Continue reading
University students in Iran have once again taken a stand against the oppressive regime that enforces the mandatory hijab rule. These brave individuals have decided to boycott classes in protest of the restriction placed upon women in their country. It takes immense courage to speak out against such deeply ingrained beliefs and practices. The fact that these students are willing to risk their safety and future for the sake of women’s rights is truly commendable.
The youth are the future of a nation, and when they lose their voice and agency, the country suffers as a whole. By standing up against the enforced hijab, these students are not only fighting for gender equality but also for the freedom to express themselves without fear of repercussion.… Continue reading
As an Oklahoma student, I am deeply affected by the recent tragic death of a fellow student, Nex, who was a trans individual. The news of Nex’s passing due to bullying is not just heartbreaking but also a stark reminder of the harsh reality that many LGBTQ+ students face every day. Bullying and discrimination should never be tolerated, especially within the education system, where students should feel safe and supported.
The fact that 40 students walked out in protest of the bullying policies at the high school is a powerful statement. It signifies that the younger generation is not afraid to stand up for what is right and demand change.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood