english (original) | Add a translation >>

Elvira Arellano Arrested by ICE; Deported to Tijuana

IMC-US, 20.08.2007

Protest Vigils Held Nationwide

Elvira Arrellano, an immigrant rights activist who defied a deportation order for more than a year by declaring sanctuary at Chicago's Adalberto United Methodist Church in Humboldt Park, was arrested Sunday afternoon in Los Angeles. Arellano, with her son Saul, has become a national symbol of the destruction of families by federal policy.

On Sunday evening, San Diego Indymedia reported that Elvira Arellano was being driven from L.A. to Tijuana to be deported. The Guardian of London reported that her pastor had spoken to her by phone in Tijuana, where she was free after being deported.

Arrellano's arrest came just one day after she ended her sanctuary and embarked on an impromptu speaking and media tour to advocate on behalf of undocumented immigrants in the US. In a statement issued on August 15, she wrote: For the last 15 days, I have maintained a vigil in prayer. I have consulted with spiritual leaders and with those who face the same situation I face. I have made my decision... Read full statement.

Solidarity actions have taken place in Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, and San Diego. Photos from Houston Vigil | Video from San Diego Vigil ||| Read More: Chicago Indymedia feature | Los Angeles Indymedia feature | San Diego Indymedia Feature ||| En Espanol: La Raza report | La Opinion







Email this article to someone >>

Make a quick comment on this article >>