Tufts student detained by ICE releases statement while lawyers argue jurisdiction

Rümeysa Öztürk, a Turkish PhD student at Tufts University, was arrested by plainclothes federal agents outside her apartment in Somerville. She was taken under controversial circumstances, with claims made by the Trump Administration that her visa was revoked due to alleged ties to Hamas. However, no evidence has been made public to support this claim, and her lawyers assert her visa status was valid. During her court appearance, Öztürk addressed injustices affecting youth today and emphasized her commitment to peaceful activism. She has not been charged with any crime, despite being targeted for her political activism, specifically with

I am a Ph.D. student working with children and youth. We know that injustice in the world and systemic brutality towards people of color has long-lasting negative effects on children, youth, and other communities. My life is committed to choosing peaceful and inclusive ways to meet the needs of children. I believe the world is a more beautiful and peaceful place when we listen to each other and allow different perspectives to be in the room.

Rümeysa Öztürk was detained by ICE agents outside an off-campus apartment building. Her lawyers assert that she maintained valid F-1 status while at Tufts.

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