Michigan Faces Backlash Over Surveilling Activist Students

The University of Michigan has faced mounting criticism after it was revealed the school hired private, undercover investigators from City Shield Security to surveil pro-Palestinian student activists both on and off campus. The operatives allegedly followed students, recorded conversations, and staged confrontational incidents, including pretending to be disabled and making false accusations. Evidence collected was reportedly used by prosecutors to charge students, though many charges were later dropped. The university has paid City Shield at least $800,000 since 2023 and maintains that its security measures are not based on students' beliefs or affiliations. Both faculty and students have condemned the practice, with some professors expressing outrage and students reporting increased anxiety. The revelations have intensified criticism of the university's handling of pro-Palestinian activism amid ongoing calls for divestment from Israeli companies.