**Federal Judge Rules for University of Maryland Student Vigil Critical of Israel; Gov. Moore Disagrees**

A federal judge has ruled in favor of a University of Maryland student group, permitting a vigil critical of Israel to proceed on the anniversary of the Hamas attacks despite earlier cancellations. The group, Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), gained court approval after the university had revoked their event citing public pressure and safety concerns.

Governor Wes Moore of Maryland has voiced his opposition to the timing of the event, deeming it "inappropriate" for the anniversary. SJP had initially filed a lawsuit in federal court after the university, under immense public scrutiny, reversed its decision to allow the vigil on October 7th. This date marks a tragic anniversary when around 1,200 Israelis were killed, and approximately 250 were taken hostage by Hamas last year.

A university statement on Tuesday confirmed adherence to the court’s ruling, including the implementation of robust safety measures such as heightened security presence. On the same day, Governor Moore, though respecting the legal procedure, expressed his disapproval of holding the event on such a sensitive date.

Senior Judge Peter J. Messitte, in his opinion issued post-hearing, supported the students' First Amendment rights, emphasizing that their freedom of speech was compromised. He acknowledged the potential distress the vigil might cause to some pro-Israel groups, given the anniversary's significance. However, he pointed out that both sides consider the date sacred, and it would be unjust to impede SJP's lawful expression.

Legal representatives for the students, including lawyers from Palestine Legal and the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), celebrated the decision, highlighting its significance for student activists across the nation. Tori Porell of Palestine Legal affirmed that criticizing Israel’s actions in Gaza is a legally protected act under the First Amendment.

SJP declared that their planned vigil on McKeldin Mall aims to honor the victims of the ongoing violence in Gaza. However, University President Darryll Pines had earlier suspended all student-organization events on October 7, citing heightened emotional impact and safety concerns spurred by public feedback, including online petitions and political pressure.

Despite arguments from the university suggesting safety and security challenges, the judge noted SJP's history of peaceful activities on campus over the past year. The court allowed the university to bolster security for the event, including implementing crowd-control measures and verifying attendees' identities.

The ruling underscores the balance of upholding free speech rights while addressing safety and security concerns, a legal precedent that may influence similar cases in educational institutions across the country.