AHRC Welcomes The Dismissal Of Charges Against The Michigan Students Who Protested The Genocide In Gaza:

The American Human Rights Council (AHRC-USA) welcomes the decision by District Judge Cedric Simpson of the 15th District Court in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County, to dismiss all charges brought by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel against seven students—Oliver Kozler, Samantha Lewis, Michael Mueller, Asad Siddiqui, Avi Tachna-Fram, Henry MacKeen-Shapiro, and Rhiannon Willow—who had pleaded not guilty since the outset of the prosecution. This case reaffirms the importance of due process, the First Amendment, and the integrity of the judicial system.

The courtroom was filled with supporters who had rallied outside, demanding justice for the students and calling for the dismissal of the charges. As the court’s decision was announced, the crowd erupted in cheers, chanting "Free Palestine" in celebration.

Attorney General Nessel dropped all charges, including alleged trespassing, resisting and obstructing police officers, and felony charges related to the students' involvement in protests and encampments at the Diag on the University of Michigan campus in 2024. The protests were organized in response to the genocide in Gaza. Despite the court’s ruling, AG Nessel issued a statement maintaining her stance that the charges were valid, though she acknowledged the case had come to a close.

AHRC commends the court for upholding First Amendment rights and ensuring that the principles of free speech and free assembly remain protected. The prosecution of these students appeared politically motivated and indicative of selective enforcement, underscoring the need for an impartial legal system free from real or perceived bias and political agendas. The court’s ruling serves as a vital reminder that the judiciary remains a crucial guardian of justice, especially in times of political uncertainty.

AHRC also recognizes the unwavering resilience of the students, who endured a challenging and unjust legal battle while steadfastly defending their rights. Their perseverance highlights the fundamental importance of civic engagement and the protection of constitutional freedoms.

Furthermore, AHRC extends its heartfelt appreciation to the students’ dedicated legal team—Amir Makled, Raed Mourad, Jamil Khuja, Ollie Ajami, John Minock, and Stacie McNulty—who fought relentlessly in the face of immense political pressure and efforts to intimidate. Lawyers are critical to protection of constitutional rights.

During an interview with the Free Press, Attorney Amir Makled, who represented Samantha Lewis, emphasized that the charges should never have been filed.

"This was not about trespassing; this was not about felony conduct," Makled stated. "This was the criminalization of free speech, and today, the state of Michigan agrees."

AHRC remains committed to advocating for justice, the protection of civil rights, and the preservation of constitutional freedoms for all.

“Law should not be weaponized to go after dissenting voices, under different pretexts,” said Imad Hamad, AHRC Executive Director. “There is no constitutional right to be free from speech one disagrees with,” added Hamad. “The hard work of the amazing legal team ensured that the US Constitution is not merely parchment guarantee,” concluded Hamad.