TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (WBRC) – On Monday afternoon, March 31, more than 150 people assembled outside the federal courthouse in Tuscaloosa calling for the immediate release of Alireza Doroudi, an Iranian doctoral student at the University of Alabama who was recently detained by federal immigration authorities.
Supporters argued that his arrest raises significant concerns about the treatment of international students in the United States.
Jessica Perez, a University of Alabama student and daughter of immigrant parents, expressed her disbelief at the situation.
“For some reason, I never thought that could happen on UA’s campus,” Perez said.
Perez, who advocates for immigrant rights, questioned why Doroudi—legally present in the U.S. on a student visa—is now in ICE custody.
“I still believe they should do more and say more to support their student rather than being complacent and just looking the other way,” she added.
The University of Alabama responded to WBRC with a statement, noting that federal privacy laws limit what they can disclose about the situation.
The University of Alabama recently learned that a doctoral student has been detained off campus by federal immigration authorities. Federal privacy laws limit what can be shared about an individual student. International students studying at the University are valued members of the campus community, and International Student and Scholar Services is available to assist international students who have questions. UA has and will continue to follow all immigration laws and cooperate with federal authorities.
Doroudi’s attorney, David Rozas, maintains that his client has done nothing wrong.
Mr. Doroudi is a doctoral student in mechanical engineering at the University of Alabama, with an active I-20/SEVIS status at the university. I have not been informed of any allegations concerning significant national security issues. He was taken into custody by ICE at 3:00 a.m. at his home and is currently held in a county jail, awaiting transfer to an immigration facility. He has not been arrested for any crime, nor has he participated in any anti-government protests. He is legally present in the U.S., pursuing his American dream by working towards his doctorate in mechanical engineering. He is also in the early stages of applying for an EB-1/Adjustment of Status as a researcher with extraordinary ability.
“He has not been arrested for any crime, nor has he participated in any anti-government protests. He is legally present in the U.S., pursuing his American dream,” Rozas stated.
Some students and community members worry that Doroudi’s case could set a concerning precedent.
“It makes me wonder, if the university refuses to stand for one student, what does it mean for the other students?” Perez questioned.
“Really, if you’re an international student, you’re a target,” added Isabella Cornelius, a University of Alabama graduate.
Emily Altman, chair of Mission Peace and Justice Work at Grace Presbyterian Church, highlighted the growing fear among international students on campus.
“A lot of people are really frightened. Frightened to go to class, frightened to be out in the world—and I just think that’s not the world we want,” Altman said.
A GoFundMe campaign created to support Doroudi’s legal fees has already raised more than $25,000.
As the protest continued, supporters emphasized their commitment to seeking answers.
Officials have yet to provide details on why the government considers Doroudi a security risk.
Protest over ICE arrest of University of Alabama student
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