We are thrilled to share that a member of our community, Edward Alonso Castillo has been released from ICE detention after nearly 2 months!
Alonso is a Queens resident and business owner. He also has serious health problems, and his release is a huge relief for him, his family, and our entire community.
Alonso was arrested a week into the Biden administration. It is very clear that we must continue to fight hard for respect and dignity for immigrants here in New York and across the country.
His release follows multiple urgent requests by our legal and organizing teams over the past month, along with the support of nearly 1,000 community members who signed our online petition calling to #FreeAlonso.
Will you support our fight today with $20 dollars to support our immigration work?
The long delay in Alonso’s release was particularly alarming because of his deteriorating health and because he is not a priority for ICE enforcement under the new memoranda put out months ago by the Biden Administration. Still, ICE’s New York Field Office had refused to release him. We are thrilled that Alonso can now continue working with his legal team while seeking the medical care he needs.
During the height of the pandemic, Alonso and his partner Rocio donated food from their business, Babylon Bagel, to essential workers and hospitals across Long Island. They also gave out free food to many immigrants who, like themselves, did not qualify for federal aid. On Friday afternoon, Alonso was reunited with his family, and even surprised his partner Rocio at their bagel shop with flowers and a big hug.
Watch the emotional video here!
Welcome home Alonso! Thank you all for your ongoing support!
¡Sí se pudo!