José Francisco García Rodríguez, a 73-year-old Cuban-born resident of Lafayette, Louisiana, was recently released after spending seven days in a detention facility managed by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). "By the power and grace of God, it's nothing short of a miracle that my father is home in my arms," expressed Tyler García, one of his sons, upon hearing the news of the release.
"This is only the beginning; there's still much to resolve, but for now, I want to pause and express gratitude. Words fail to capture my appreciation for the endless love, support, prayers, and solidarity from each of you who made this possible," Tyler added.
The detention of García Rodríguez sparked a wave of solidarity on social media and reignited discussions regarding the treatment of long-term immigrants dealing with complex legal situations.
Unexpected Arrest of a Dedicated and Ailing Worker
On April 1, José Francisco García Rodríguez was unexpectedly detained by ICE agents on his way to work. He was taken to the ICE Processing Center in Pine Prairie, located in the rural southern area of Louisiana's Evangeline Parish. The news was a shock to his family and close friends, who swiftly launched a social media campaign advocating for his release.
A Life Marked by Hard Work, Sacrifice, and Perseverance
García Rodríguez arrived in the United States 45 years ago, in 1980, during the Mariel exodus, fleeing the oppressive Cuban regime in search of freedom and opportunities. "He left his country out of fear of his government and for the chance to live a better life in America," shared his stepdaughter, Christian Cooper Riggs, in a heartfelt Facebook video.
Riggs explained that her stepfather arrived "with nothing, speaking no English, and without any formal education," and in the face of adversity, he made mistakes that led to imprisonment. "During that struggle, he made some poor choices. He served his time. He did well and decided never to repeat those mistakes," she emphasized.
Since then, García Rodríguez has led an exemplary life, raising his family, working between 40 to 60 hours weekly, and caring for his wife, who suffers from dementia. Despite his age and health issues—including heart surgery some years ago—he has continued to work in physically demanding jobs. He has never applied for Social Security benefits and has consistently paid his taxes.
The Immigration Limbo: A Decade-Long Battle
The family has spent the past decade unsuccessfully trying to regularize the grandfather's immigration status. At one point, they discovered he could not renew his work permit, raising concerns. According to Riggs, their attorneys advised them to "keep a low profile and hope ICE wouldn't take action," creating a false sense of security.
"We weren't aware he was on a deportation list," said the stepdaughter. "We believed that after serving his sentences, the past was behind him. But it wasn't," she added. Three weeks before his detention, García Rodríguez confided in his family that he feared being arrested by ICE. His fears, unfortunately, came true.
"This issue requires a scalpel, not a machete," Riggs lamented, describing the injustice done to an elderly man with health issues who also cares for a sick spouse. Despite the uncertainty over the exact reasons for his release, the family welcomed the news of his return with relief.
However, his legal status remains unresolved: he is required to appear at an immigration office soon, as confirmed by his son Tyler.
Understanding Immigration Challenges for Elderly Cuban Immigrants
Why was José Francisco García Rodríguez detained by ICE?
He was detained due to unresolved immigration status issues that have persisted for over a decade, despite his long-term residency and contributions to the community.
What challenges has García Rodríguez faced in the United States?
García Rodríguez has faced difficulties with legal immigration status, as well as health and financial challenges while caring for his family, including a spouse with dementia.