ADC Condemns Expansion of Federal Prosecution Against Pro-Palestinian University of Michigan Organizers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 30, 2026
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Washington, D.C. | Statement from President and Legal Director of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC), Jenin Younes, on the Department of Justice’s announcement of four additional defendants in its prosecution of pro-Palestinian University of Michigan organizers:

“In yet another alarming escalation of its efforts to criminalize pro-Palestinian dissent, the federal government has expanded its McCarthyite prosecution to twelve individuals, including two ADC clients. Even according to the government’s as yet unproven claims, the intended conduct in question constitutes at most minor vandalism that would typically be dealt with by local law enforcement, if at all. In any other context, this would not warrant federal prosecution. It is obvious— based on government officials’ own statements and pattern of selective prosecution— that DOJ is targeting these individuals because of their advocacy for Palestinians. They are also intentionally mischaracterizing expressions critical of Israel as antisemitic harassment.

The hypocrisy of American law enforcement is indefensible. The United States welcomes Benjamin Netanyahu, accused of genocide and with an active ICC arrest warrant, and Itamar Ben-Gvir, a racist, violent terrorist who has been sanctioned by our own allies. Israeli commander Sean Glass, credibly accused of ordering the attack that killed five-year-old Hind Rajab, her family, and her rescuers, was recently seen vacationing freely in New York City. Yet our government devotes enormous resources to prosecuting young Americans who protested these atrocities and at worst engaged in activity that would otherwise be relegated to local law enforcement and a minor penalty.

Americans need to recognize the dangerous road our country is heading down. A justice system that protects the powerful while targeting dissent cannot maintain public trust. Constitutional rights exist precisely to protect those who challenge power.”

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About ADC

The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) is the largest Arab American civil rights organization in the United States, founded in 1980 by former Senator James Abourezk. ADC takes on powerful institutions and interests that threaten Americans’ constitutional rights and civil liberties. Our impact litigation and legal advocacy challenge government overreach, defend freedom of speech and dissent, and protect the rights guaranteed by the Constitution. ADC also works with national and international media to challenge discrimination, stereotypes, and misinformation, while ensuring Arab American perspectives are represented accurately and meaningfully in public debate.