Ithaca, New York – A Cornell University student, Momodou Taal, has left the United States after the government revoked his student visa, citing his involvement in campus activism. Taal, who is a citizen of both the United Kingdom and Gambia, was a doctoral student in Africana studies at the Ivy League institution.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Taal said he chose to leave the U.S. voluntarily rather than risk detention or feel unsafe.
“I have lost faith I could walk the streets without being abducted,” Taal wrote. “Weighing up these options, I took the decision to leave on my own terms.”
Why Was His Visa Revoked?
The U.S. government revoked Taal’s student visa in March 2025, claiming he took part in “disruptive protests” and violated university policies, which allegedly created a hostile environment for Jewish students on campus.
Taal had previously filed a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration, arguing that his freedom of speech was being violated. However, he withdrew the case on Monday before any ruling was issued.
Background of the Case
Taal, 31, was suspended last fall after he and a group of pro-Palestinian activists disrupted a career fair on Cornell’s campus. Although suspended, he had continued his studies remotely during the current semester.
He stated that his activism was focused on supporting the rights of Palestinians, not on causing disruption.
“Everything I have tried to do has been in service of affirming the humanity of the Palestinian people, a struggle that will leave a lasting mark on me,” he wrote on X.
Where Is He Now?
Taal did not disclose his current location or where he plans to settle next. He also did not respond to messages seeking further comment.
His attorney, Eric Lee, posted on X, expressing frustration and sadness over Taal’s departure:
“What is America if people like Momodou are not welcome here?”
Trump Administration’s Policy on Student Activism
The Trump administration has taken steps to deport noncitizen students who are involved in campus protests it views as antisemitic or sympathetic to Hamas, a designated terrorist organization. Student groups, however, argue that they are being targeted simply for speaking up for Palestinian rights.