MEDIA DIGEST: CAIR-Chicago Holds Press Conference on IDHR Charges Filed on Behalf of Palestinian Students Alleging Discrimination by DePaul University
On April 7, 2026, CAIR-Chicago hosted a press conference at DePaul University with Palestinian students and allies who allege discrimination by the University.
CAIR-Chicago has filed IDHR charges against DePaul on behalf of the students who report that disciplinary action taken against the Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) chapter led to its suspension through 2027. They further describe being accused of "antisemitism" for expressing views and sharing information about the ongoing violence in Gaza—speech they argue constitutes protected political expression, deeply rooted in their identities, lived experiences, and the tangible impact on Palestinian families both abroad and within Chicago, home to one of the largest Palestinian diasporas in the country.
Speakers included:
Christina Abraham, CAIR-Chicago Litigation Lead
Abdul, Palestinian student
U.S. Rep. Delia Ramirez (IL-03)
Tes, Palestinian student
Estrella Vazquez, District Director for State Rep. Lilian Jimenez
Rabbi Brant Rosen, Tzedek Chicago
Rev. Dr. Michael L. Pfleger, Senior Pastor at St. Sabina Church
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