Legal Group Accuses Boston University of Failing to Protect Student Following Death Threats
A legal advocacy organization, America First Legal (AFL), has claimed that Boston University (BU) did not adequately safeguard a student who received a “credible death threat” after he reported a suspected breach of federal law to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The group, currently representing the student, issued a statement asserting, “It is not illegal to report suspected violations of federal law.” They are requesting that BU transfer the student to another campus for the rest of his time in school, as the university has acknowledged it cannot ensure his safety in Boston.
Recently, Zach Segal, a student at BU, found himself threatened after he commented on a piece published on Boston.com that discussed the arrest of nine undocumented immigrants by ICE agents. In his post on the platform X, he expressed concern about job availability for Americans and mentioned that he had reported the alleged federal violation.
As a result of his actions, he faced online harassment and threats, particularly from activist groups at the university. The AFL reported that Segal was defamed as a “racist and fascist” and that several posters on campus announced he had “no place” at the university.
Moreover, Segal’s personal details circulated online after left-wing individuals exposed them, leading to numerous death threats. Some threats were particularly chilling, with messages threatening violence if they encountered him. One read, “We’ll be waiting outside your little event tonight,” targeting Segal, who is also the president of BU’s College Republicans.
Another threat referenced the assassination of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, warning Segal, “I hope you’re the next one to get Kirk.”
Upon being informed of the threats against Segal, the Dean of Students at BU, Jason Campbell-Foster, recommended that he avoid in-person classes and suggested remote options, indicating that the university could not guarantee Segal’s safety.
Emily Percival, a senior adviser at AFL, critiqued BU’s response, stating, “Boston University needs to protect its students and not force them into hiding.”
Consequently, the AFL is urging BU to provide reasonable accommodations for Segal, allowing him to continue his classes at the university’s Washington, D.C., campus without additional costs compared to studying in Boston.
Additionally, the AFL pointed out that President Melissa Gilliam of Boston University focused criticism on Segal instead of condemning the threats he faced. In a media statement, she cautioned against emphasizing differences such as “skin color” or “political views,” arguing that it could lead to further division.
In a letter to the university, the AFL highlighted the lack of public condemnation toward the threats against Segal and noted that BU has not taken specific actions to ensure his safety.
They referenced a contrasting situation at Olivet Nazarene University, where officials quickly provided academic accommodations for students threatened, showcasing a stark difference in reactions between the two institutions.
The AFL emphasized that Massachusetts law requires BU to take reasonable measures to prevent foreseeable harm to its students. They also noted that universities have contractual obligations based on their official commitments to student safety.
In a follow-up, Segal stated, “I love this country and everything I did came from that country,” explaining his belief that there’s a difference between seeking opportunities legally and breaking the law. He highlighted concerns about millions of working-age Americans who struggle to find work.
Expressing his dedication to the nation, Segal declared, “I care deeply about America, American workers, and our future. My only goal is to keep this country strong and safe.”
The AFL has asked BU to respond by confirming they will facilitate the requested accommodations or at least propose alternatives to ensure Segal’s safety and uninterrupted education.
Should BU fail to respond adequately, the AFL stated that their client would contemplate legal options, including engaging government authorities. As of now, Boston University has not commented on whether they condemn the threats against Segal or their plans to implement safety measures for attending remote classes.
