On Tuesday, June 9, the Philadelphia chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Philadelphia) will join students, community members, and advocates at the Delaware County Courthouse in Media, Pennsylvania, for a press conference in support of the individuals known as the “Swarthmore 9,” who face charges for their anti-genocide, pro-Palestine activism.
SEE: Swarthmore Called the Police on Our Protest. Now I’m Preparing for Trial.
The press conference, beginning at 8 a.m. ahead of a 9 a.m. court hearing, will bring together defendants, legal counsel, faculty, and community allies to address the ongoing case and its broader implications for civil liberties, student activism, and the right to peaceful protest.
WHAT: Swarthmore 9 Press Conference
WHEN: June 9, Tuesday at 8 AM
WHERE: Delaware County Courthouse 201 W Front St, Media, PA 19063
WHO: The defendants, legal representatives, and faculty supporters, followed by an opportunity for media questions.
CONTACT: Ahmet Tekelioglu, CAIR-Philadelphia Executive Director, 617-401-5397; atekelioglu@cair.com
Media are encouraged to attend. Interviews, photographs, and video will be available during and after the press conference.
BACKGROUNDER:
The “Swarthmore 9” are facing third-degree misdemeanor trespassing charges following their arrest at a pro-Palestine encampment organized by students. The group includes Swarthmore students and community members from across the greater Philadelphia region and faces potential penalties of up to one year in prison.
“CAIR-Philadelphia stands in solidarity with students and community members exercising their right to peaceful protest,” said Ahmet Tekelioglu, Executive Director of CAIR-Philadelphia. “At a time when fundamental freedoms are being tested, it is critical that we uphold the principles of free expression and ensure that advocacy for justice is not met with disproportionate legal consequences. We encourage the Delaware County DA to uphold principles of free expression and avoid penalizing student speech.”
The press conference will include statements from the defendants, legal representatives, and faculty supporters, followed by an opportunity for media questions.
CAIR-Philadelphia’s participation reflects its ongoing commitment to protecting civil rights, supporting student advocacy, and ensuring that individuals are not penalized for engaging in constitutionally protected expression.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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CONTACT: Ahmet Tekelioglu, CAIR-Philadelphia Executive Director, 617-401-5397; atekelioglu@cair.com