Momodou Taal, a British-Gambian Ph.D. student at Cornell, finds himself in a tumultuous situation as he faces potential deportation due to his pro-Palestinian activism. Initially focused on his dissertation in political economy, Taal's engagement deepened following the outbreak of war in Gaza. His family background, being the great-grandson of Gambia's first president, alongside his long-standing commitment to the Palestinian cause, compelled him to participate in campus protests. Taal's activism has resulted in multiple suspensions from the university, raising critical questions about the intersection of student activism and institutional response, particularly for international students.
Taal expressed surprise at becoming part of an American protest movement, reflecting on his initial focus on studies at Cornell, prior to becoming involved.
Despite his academic focus on sovereignty and political economy, he felt compelled to engage in activism amidst escalating violence in Gaza.
The decision to join protests was influenced by his family’s history in politics and a long-standing interest in the Palestinian cause since his youth.
His activism led to multiple suspensions from Cornell, highlighting campus tensions regarding political expression and the implications for international students.
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