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Korean American Student Sues Trump Administration Over Deportation Threat
A Korean American student from Columbia University has initiated legal action against the Trump administration, seeking to halt her deportation. Yunseo Chung, 21, a legal permanent resident of the U.S. who has been here since the age of seven, claims her green card status was recently revoked amid her participation in pro-Palestinian demonstrations.
The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Chung’s legal representatives were notified just two weeks prior that her status as a lawful permanent resident was in jeopardy, prompting the suit.
According to the suit, the administration argues that Chung’s presence in the United States disrupts its foreign policy objectives. Notably, she has not yet faced arrest; however, immigration officials have visited her home multiple times in search of her.
The lawsuit presents Chung’s case as part of a broader trend observed within the U.S. government, which it claims is aiming to suppress constitutionally protected activities related to protest and free speech. The document highlights that the government’s actions appear disproportionately targeted at university students advocating for Palestinian rights and critiquing Israel’s military operations in Gaza.
A representative from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has indicated that there are concerns regarding Chung’s conduct, referencing her arrest during a protest at Barnard College that the agency described as “pro-Hamas.” The spokesperson did not provide specific details about the incidents leading to this characterization but assured that she would have the opportunity to present her defense before an immigration judge.
Former President Trump has openly expressed intentions to deport foreign nationals participating in pro-Palestinian protests, alleging these individuals have links to militant groups like Hamas and arguing that their actions hinder U.S. foreign policy and reflect antisemitism.
In response, protesters—including members of Jewish organizations—contend that the administration is incorrectly equating their vocal support for Palestinian rights and criticism of Israel with antisemitic sentiments and endorsement of Hamas. Civil rights advocates have spoken out against what they perceive as a dangerous escalation in government efforts to stifle free expression and dissent.
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www.cbc.ca