Rümeysa Öztürk Released from Federal Custody
Basile, Louisiana – Rümeysa Öztürk, a 30-year-old Tufts University PhD student from Turkey, was released from an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility on Friday after being held since March 25. Her arrest stemmed from a political speech she delivered calling for Palestinian rights, which drew governmental scrutiny.
Öztürk was taken into custody by federal agents who moved to deport her without due process following her opinion piece critical of Israel in a student newspaper. Her release came after a federal judge in Vermont expressed significant concerns regarding the legality and due process of her detention.
Exiting the detention center, Öztürk expressed heartfelt gratitude to supporters, particularly union members from the SEIU, who had rallied for her cause. “Thank you so much for being here, especially the union folks. I appreciate all the support and love,” she said, visibly tired but relieved.
The judge’s ruling underscored the importance of free speech and raised alarms about the potential chilling effect of government actions on the rights of non-citizens in the U.S. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) hailed her release as a victory for those committed to justice.
During her detention, concerns about Öztürk’s health were also raised, as she faced worsening asthma conditions. Supporters, including classmates and community members, had organized protests and petitions advocating for her release, reflecting widespread public concern over her treatment.
As she recuperates after her ordeal, the situation surrounding Öztürk’s detention has ignited discussions about immigration policies and civil liberties in the United States.
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