March 10, 2025
Statement from Librarians and Archivists With Palestine (LAP) on the Unlawful Detention of Palestinian Activist Mahmoud Khalil
Librarians and Archivists With Palestine (LAP) is committed to the core values of justice, equity, and civil, political, and human rights. Our profession holds a deep and fundamental belief in the freedom of expression, the right to information, and the dignity of all people, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, or political affiliation. We stand in firm opposition to the kidnapping and illegal detention of Palestinian activist and legal green card holder Mahmoud Khalil by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
LAP recognizes the critical role of activists like Mr. Khalil in advocating for justice and amplifying Palestinian voices. His detention is not just an attack on one individual, but an assault on the collective right to dissent, to seek justice, and to resist oppression and occupation. As librarians and archivists, we uphold the preservation of free thought, historical integrity, and the right of all people to access the information and resources necessary to educate, empower, and organize for social change.
We call for Mr. Khalil's immediate release, the cessation of his unjust and illegal detention, and a commitment to the protection of the fundamental rights of all individuals, American citizens and noncitizens alike, engaged in advocacy for Palestinian human rights. We will continue to amplify our voices in the pursuit of justice and the recognition of Palestinian dignity and call on all librarians, archivists and associated organizations to do the same.
Please consider signing this petition to demand the immediate release of Mahmoud Khalil from federal detention.