The arrest of former Columbia University student Mahmoud Khalil by federal immigration authorities has raised concerns about the erosion of the right to protest in America. This incident, seen as part of the Trump administration’s crackdown on dissent, prompts questions about its constitutionality. In a discussion featuring NYU journalism professor Chenjerai Kumanyika and historian of conservatism Rick Perlstein, the focus shifts to America’s complex relationship with the First Amendment and the implications of ICE’s arrest of a lawful permanent resident on the nation’s protest culture. The conversation delves into the core values of free speech and assembly that are integral to American identity, exploring how these principles are being tested in the current political climate. The episode underscores the importance of upholding these fundamental rights in the face of government actions that may stifle dissent and hinder peaceful demonstrations. By shedding light on this pivotal moment, the discussion encourages reflection on the enduring significance of the right to protest in shaping the American narrative.