In April, several federal agencies bragged about arresting a Columbus man they claim is a member of Tren de Aragua, without offering any details. Since then, they’ve been blasting his picture all over social media.
When I saw his blurred face and rumpled clothes, flanked by federal agents in riot gear, my heart sank. I didn’t see anyone to fear. I saw a regular man at the dawn of what should have been another day of work. In his blurred face, I also saw the ghost of a person who might soon be “disappeared” to a torture camp in El Salvador, by our own U.S. government.
We cannot allow this to be who we are. That is why we need you to join with us at the Ohio Immigrant Alliance. Become a monthly sustaining donor today.
On Instagram, this man’s sister bravely responded to the FBI post mocking her brother:
Para los del FBI y policía, antes de arrestar primero tómense el tiempo en averiguar sus récord policivos y antecedentes penales. El que tiene allí es mi hermano, y lo arrestaron sin conocer ni investigar sus antecedentes. Por favor averigüen, investiguen.
For those with the FBI and police, before arresting someone first take the time to find out their police record and criminal history. That person you have there is my brother, and you arrested him without understanding or investigating his priors. Please find out, investigate.
I spoke with her. She is living in shock and fear. Her brother came to the United States to work and contribute. To take care of his family. To make them proud. The fact that he’s now being accused of being a gang member is not only false — it’s surreal.
The man is wearing a “Stronger Together” shirt, for crying out loud. The irony is clear.
We made contact with his sister, and he’s been transferred to an immigration jail far from Ohio. We’re doing everything we can to help him find a good lawyer. That’s what we can do at this moment. And we can only do that because YOU are standing with us.
I know you’re sick about what you see on the news every day. Our staff at the Ohio Immigrant Alliance are here to help families like his because of the generous support of people like you. Can you make a monthly donation to the Ohio Immigrant Alliance today?
“Stronger Together” isn’t just a slogan on a shirt — it’s what we are. We are creative and resourceful, and we keep trying new strategies to keep our communities safe. Making a monthly donation in any amount sustains our work, and ensures the Ohio Immigrant Alliance is here tomorrow as well as today. Please make your tax-deductible donation today. Thank you.