Louisiana, USA – Congressional lawmakers condemned the treatment of two detained students, Mahmoud Khalil and Rümeysa Öztürk, for their pro-Palestinian activism while in the custody of US immigration authorities. The lawmakers described their detention as a “national disgrace” during a recent visit to the facilities where the students are being held in Louisiana.

Led by Louisiana congressman Troy Carter, the delegation expressed solidarity with Khalil and Öztürk, emphasizing their support for free speech. Both students, who have been detained for over a month without being charged with any crimes, are being held in violation of their constitutional rights, according to members of the delegation.

The group, which included representatives Carter, Bennie Thompson, Ayanna Pressley, Jim McGovern, Senator Ed Markey, and ACLU of Louisiana executive director Alanah Odoms, visited two ICE processing centers in Louisiana where the students are being detained. The lawmakers conducted real-time oversight of the facilities, describing the administration’s actions as “rogue and lawless.”

Following the visit, Senator Markey expressed outrage at the Trump administration’s crackdown on immigrants and erosion of constitutional rights. He emphasized the critical juncture in American history, calling attention to the authoritarian direction in which the country is headed.

The detention of Öztürk – a Tufts University PhD student, and Khalil – a graduate of Columbia, has drawn significant scrutiny. Öztürk, who co-authored a critical piece in a student newspaper, was detained under alarming conditions, which included being denied essential care and legal representation. Khalil, who missed the birth of his child while in custody, is facing potential deportation despite being a lawful permanent resident of the US.

Lawmakers described the detained individuals as political prisoners and condemned the administration for its harsh immigration policies. The delegation highlighted the fear and distress among those in custody, noting their lack of access to proper healthcare and the harsh conditions in the facilities.

In response to the detentions, Senator Peter Welch of Vermont also met with another Palestinian student, Mohsen Mahdawi, who was detained during a naturalization interview at Columbia University. The ongoing situation has sparked widespread concern and calls for upholding fundamental rights and values in the face of oppressive government actions.