Violeta and Manuel
Age 10 and 16
Violeta (Age 10) and Manuel (Age 16) spent 42 draining days in detention.
We pushed back, and within 2 weeks, they were released. Because every day behind bars robs children of another day of healthy development.
Sketch by Marc Nelson
Violeta wept as she said goodbye to her father at the border. The cruel Remain in Mexico policy mandated that he stay behind. Violeta clutched her brother’s hand as they approached the U.S. port of entry.
The children were placed in the custody of the government. Their uncle applied to have them released into his care. Instead, the government stalled, dragging out their release. ICE even tried to deport them.
The siblings spent 42 draining days in detention. We got involved on day 30. We pushed back, and within 2 weeks, they were released. Because every day behind bars robs children of another day of healthy development.