“Federal charges have been filed in the Southern District of New York against two individuals: Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi. But a few did not. Two men, Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi, traveled from Pennsylvania and attempted to bring violence to New York City. While I found this protest appalling, I will not waver in my belief that it should be allowed to happen. Ours is a free society where the right to peaceful protest is sacred.”

Source: New York Times March 09, 2026 22:15 UTC