A Guatemalan mother and her newborn baby girl were able to avoid expedited deportation thanks to community pressure, migrant advocates and the direct intervention of Arizona’s governor.
The woman, identified as Erika, was released from federal custody just two days after giving birth, in what is considered one of the first humanitarian victories against the hard-line immigration policy imposed by the Trump administration.
Custodied after giving birth
Erika, 24, crossed the Arizona desert eight months pregnant after walking for days fleeing threats in her home country.
She was apprehended by the Border Patrol near Tucson and taken to Tucson Medical Center hospital, where on April 30 she gave birth to a baby girl.
But instead of receiving humanitarian assistance, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents guarded his room and denied access to his lawyer, Luis Campos, who had been contacted by the family from Guatemala.
They didn't even let me talk to her on the phone
Luis Campos, attorney
Protests and political pressure that worked
The community did not remain silent.
Dozens of activists protested in front of the hospital demanding his release, while the case went viral on social networks.
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs also raised her voice and contacted federal authorities to express her concern.
That pressure had an effect.
On Saturday, May 3, Erika was released with her daughter and taken to a shelter run by a non-profit organization in Phoenix.
There you will be able to prepare your asylum application and face the immigration process with legal support.
A case that reflects a harsher immigration policy
Since Donald Trump resumed the presidency in January 2025, he has reinstated harsh immigration measures.
He has eliminated programs such as CBP One, reinstated express deportations and seeks to eliminate birthright citizenship.
So far this year, only nine migrants have been admitted to the U.S. under medical or humanitarian exceptions, according to official figures.
Erika had no criminal record or previous deportations, so her profile fits her profile as a candidate for asylum.
However, under current policies, his deportation seemed imminent.
Arizona migrant deportation halted
Buzzy
The case of the suspension of the deportation of the migrant detained in Arizona demonstrates the power of community organizing and access to legal defense.
For thousands of vulnerable migrants, having support networks and media visibility can mean the difference between expulsion and a second chance.
His case will now be evaluated by an immigration judge, as human rights advocates closely follow what could be an important legal precedent in the midst of an increasingly restrictive immigration policy.
If you or someone you know is facing a similar situation, seek legal help immediately.
There are organizations throughout the country that offer free or low-cost support.
For more news visit QueOnnda.com.
