Overview

• Mohsen Mahdawi, a Palestinian activist and legal permanent resident, was arrested on April 14, 2025, during a U.S. citizenship interview in Vermont but released after 16 days by a federal judge citing First Amendment concerns.
• On May 8, Mahdawi joined Vermont officials to announce the Vermont Immigration Legal Defense Fund, aimed at raising $1 million to support immigrants facing deportation and detention.
• The fund will bolster the Vermont Asylum Assistance Project, expand legal teams, train pro bono attorneys, and partner with community organizations to assist vulnerable immigrant populations.
• Mahdawi, who led pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University, continues to face deportation proceedings as the Trump administration appeals his release, citing national security concerns.
• Vermont leaders, including Republican Governor Phil Scott, have condemned the federal government’s handling of Mahdawi’s arrest, emphasizing transparency, due process, and constitutional rights.