Supporters gathered in Denver, Colorado, on March 15, 2017, to hold a vigil for immigration activist Jeanette Vizguerra, who has been in custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) since early March. Attendees expressed solidarity with Vizguerra, asserting that her detention is a result of targeted retaliation due to her activism, while ICE maintains that she is being held under a deportation order.
The vigil took place outside the detention facility where Vizguerra is held, drawing a crowd of community members and fellow activists. Many carried signs and shared stories highlighting her contributions to the immigrant community and her efforts to advocate for reform.
According to supporters, Vizguerra’s situation represents a broader issue of how ICE operates, particularly in its treatment of activists and individuals who speak out against immigration policies. They argue that the agency’s actions are politically motivated, aimed at suppressing dissent within the immigrant community.
In a statement, a representative for ICE affirmed that Vizguerra is subject to a deportation order due to her immigration status, which they claim has been determined through due process. Despite this, supporters at the vigil emphasized their belief that her activism should not result in punitive measures.
Vigils and protests like this one have become more common as community members rally around individuals facing deportation. The case of Vizguerra has resonated deeply, prompting discussions on the treatment of immigrants and the rights of those who advocate for them.
As the vigil continued, speakers highlighted the importance of raising awareness about the challenges faced by immigrants in detention. Many attendees called for urgent reform to the immigration system, urging policymakers to consider more humane approaches to immigration enforcement.
The gathering concluded with a moment of silence for Vizguerra, as well as other detained immigrants, reaffirming the commitment of her supporters to fight for justice and reform within the system. The community remains hopeful that their collective voices will amplify the call for change and lead to a reconsideration of Vizguerra’s case.
