A Columbia University junior facing deportation after her arrest during an anti-Israel demonstration is now suing President Trump and top federal officials in an attempt to halt the process.
Yunseo Chung, 21, who has lived in the United States for nearly 15 years, is challenging the government’s efforts to revoke her legal status and remove her from the country. The lawsuit, filed in Manhattan federal court, names several high-ranking officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Attorney General Pamela Bondi, and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
Arrest Sparks Federal Scrutiny
Chung, a legal permanent resident from South Korea, was taken into police custody on March 5 after participating in a sit-in at Barnard College, part of an ongoing protest movement. She was charged with obstructing governmental administration and given a desk appearance ticket by the NYPD.
Shortly after, federal agents began searching for her, even visiting her parents’ home and contacting her directly, according to the lawsuit. DHS officials reportedly told her lawyer that the State Department had revoked her immigration status and that an administrative warrant had been issued for her arrest.
Legal Team Claims Free Speech Retaliation
Chung’s attorneys argue that the government’s actions are meant to intimidate activists and suppress free speech, particularly targeting noncitizens supporting Palestinian rights.
“The government is using immigration enforcement as a tool for political punishment,” her legal team stated in the lawsuit. “Officials have openly signaled their intent to target noncitizens who engage in speech perceived as critical of U.S. foreign policy.”
Federal Response and Other Deportation Cases
A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security defended the move, stating that Chung’s arrest at Barnard College was part of a concerning pattern. “She is being sought for removal proceedings under the immigration laws,” the spokesperson told The New York Times.
Chung is not the only student activist facing deportation. Mahmoud Khalil, a former Columbia student, was also taken into federal custody earlier this month following his involvement in campus demonstrations. Khalil, who originally entered the U.S. on a student visa, is currently detained in Louisiana as legal battles continue over his status.
Columbia’s Reaction and Ongoing Legal Fight
Chung’s dorm was among two Columbia-owned residences that federal law enforcement raided on March 13, drawing criticism from interim university president Katrina Armstrong, who said she was “heartbroken” over the events.
The lawsuit asks a federal judge to block Chung’s deportation and protect her from further law enforcement action. Meanwhile, her legal team continues to fight the administration’s efforts to revoke her residency and remove her from the U.S.
Federal agencies, including the State Department, Attorney General’s Office, and DHS, have not yet issued official statements in response to the lawsuit .
