Activist

Denver Judge Weighs Release of Immigrant Activist Detained Despite Church Sanctuary

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DENVER — A federal court in Denver is poised to consider the case of Jeanette Vizguerra, an immigrant and labor organizer who has sought sanctuary in Colorado churches to evade deportation orders that originated during President Donald Trump’s tenure. The hearing set for Friday might determine whether Vizguerra will be released from the immigration detention facility where she has been held since her March 17 arrest by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Vizguerra, a Mexican national who entered the U.S. without authorization in 1997, has been detained pending deportation. ICE has stated that Vizguerra … Read more

Activist Jeff Fogel Calls for Stronger Powers and More Advocates on Charlottesville’s Police Oversight Board

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CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — Nearly a decade after its establishment, the Police Civilian Oversight Board in Charlottesville, originally envisioned as a cornerstone for improving police accountability and community trust, is facing criticism for its effectiveness and limitations. Activist and attorney Jeff Fogel, a key proponent of the board’s creation, expressed significant dissatisfaction with its operational constraints and output. Founded in 2017, the oversight board was part of a broader movement seen in various U.S. cities aimed at increasing transparency and oversight of local police forces. This initiative resonated deeply in Charlottesville, a community continually seeking to … Read more

Progressive Champion and Lifelong Activist Dan Rupli Passes Away at 82 After Impactful Political Legacy

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Columbia, Md. — Dan Rupli, a fervent progressive champion and committed advocate for civil rights, has died due to complications from a fall and dementia at the age of 82. Known for his relentless pursuit of political and social justice, Rupli’s career spanned several decades, featuring stints as a U.S. congressional candidate, a legal adviser, and a participant in President Bill Clinton’s trade missions. Rupli’s political endeavors began in earnest in 1976 when he challenged incumbent Rep. Goodloe Byron in Maryland’s 6th Congressional District. Representing a more liberal stance against Byron, a conservative Democrat, Rupli … Read more

Judge to Review Case of Columbia University Activist Facing Deportation Amid Free Speech Concerns

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New York, NY – A court hearing is set for Wednesday following the controversial arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Palestinian activist and Columbia University demonstrator, who was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials. Khalil, a legal permanent resident with a green card, was apprehended amid allegations of affiliating with terrorist groups, an accusation he vehemently denies. Khalil, known for leading vocal protests against Israel’s military actions in Gaza at Columbia, has become a focal point in broader discussions about free speech and the rights of activists on college campuses. His arrest this past … Read more