UNL international students share their fears amid mass visa revocation

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – More than 900 students nationwide have had their visas revoked or their legal status terminated.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln said a “small number” of students have been affected at UNL, but fear is growing among the community.

Students from dozens of countries come together every day at the student union on UNL’s campus.

But some international students said this makes them wonder whether they’re welcome.

“I’m actually quite worried for those who are fighting for their lives, quite literally.” said Juju Lado, a second year student from South Sudan.

The students at risk were not breaking the law or under any investigations.

“It’s really disheartening,” said Hamdiya Mumaed, a sophomore student from Kenya. “International students work just as hard as anyone else on this campus.”

Some UNL students said they feel like they’re walking on eggshells.

“I feel like no matter how hard we try or how hard we work or how much we contribute to things, our place here can still be taken away.” said Lado.

Students said they worry not just about paperwork, but about perception.

“It feels like you start to be seen as a problem rather than a person.” said Lado.

Some fear being targeted or misunderstood for simply being from another country.

“I feel kind of unsafe,” said Mumaed. “Diversity is being viewed as a threat rather than a strength. I feel like I’m being perceived differently especially as a visually Muslim student.”

The university said it remains committed to welcoming all students, but some say that feels more like an empty slogan.

“Feeling safe right now means more than just physical safety, it means emotional safety,” said Lado. “Knowing that the university has my back and obviously, I don’t feel like the university has our backs right now.”

The students said many of their fellow international students will continue to fight because they deserve to be here just as much as any other student.