UPDATE: Just hours after being released from an ICE detention facility, activist Jeanette Vizguerra stood before supporters in downtown Denver, vowing to continue her fight against immigration enforcement. Vizguerra was released on $5,000 bail following a federal judge’s intervention that allowed her to secure a hearing after nearly nine months in detention.
Speaking passionately to a crowd of supporters on Tuesday, Vizguerra declared, “The victory belongs to everyone,” emphasizing the collective effort that led to her release. Her detention had sparked widespread protests and vigils, highlighting the ongoing concerns regarding immigration enforcement under the Trump administration.
Vizguerra’s release is a significant moment for the immigrant rights community, particularly as she has become a symbol of the struggles faced by undocumented immigrants. “Don’t give up. Keep fighting,” she urged those still detained, sharing her commitment to advocate for their rights. The emotional reunion with her children and community was marked by tears, chants of “Free them all!” and a brass horn celebration.
The activist’s legal battle was fought by a team of pro bono immigration attorneys, culminating in a bail hearing ordered by a U.S. District Court judge last week. Despite her release, Vizguerra remains in a precarious position as she continues to contest ICE’s efforts to deport her. She has a scheduled check-in appointment with ICE in January 2024 and, notably, was released without any monitoring devices.
Reflecting on her nine months in detention, Vizguerra stated, “Those days were not lost; I documented numerous cases of people arrested by ICE without a warrant.” Her experience underscores the harsh realities faced by many immigrants who lack legal representation. Most detainees are not represented by attorneys, and many accept deportation as a way to escape prolonged detention.
Her story gained national attention in 2017 when she sheltered in a church to avoid deportation and was later listed among TIME Magazine’s most influential people. This latest chapter in her life illustrates the ongoing struggle against immigration policies that many view as unjust.
The situation surrounding Vizguerra’s release also raises questions about transparency in immigration proceedings. ICE officials previously attempted to block journalists from attending her bail hearing, highlighting the contentious nature of her case.
Moving forward, Vizguerra plans to focus on advocating for those still in detention and investigating conditions at the privately-run Aurora facility. “These detention centers treat people like products,” she expressed passionately, calling for a collective effort against the administration’s tactics aimed at detaining and deporting immigrants.
As the community rallies around Vizguerra, her release serves as a beacon of hope for many who continue to fight against immigration enforcement. “This administration is seeking to trap and detain every single one of us,” she warned, urging unity among supporters to stand against deportations.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops and as Vizguerra continues her advocacy for immigrant rights.
