Sketch by Marc Nelson

A hard-won success! Santiago* (age 15), who caught COVID in detention, has been released.

He spent 49 days in detention. He was nearly deported, but we partnered with RAICES Texas to stop the deportation from happening. 

Thank you for speaking up and helping us to protect and support children like Santiago.

Santiago* arrived at our border requesting asylum. He tested negative for COVID and was placed in quarantine, but he was not alone. He was placed in a cell with another boy with COVID symptoms. Soon, both boys tested positive for COVID. Santiago was then transferred to isolated quarantine, delaying his case even longer and further adding to his trauma. 

Sketch by Marc Nelson

This was cruel and simply unacceptable. COVID can be deadly, and because of the government’s negligence, Santiago endured a longer period of isolation.

Every day, migrant children are in danger of being exposed to this dangerous virus. Read a recent report by the Washington Post. With your support, we’ve demanded an oversight mandate that subjects government facilities to random medical inspections by certified medical personnel. Thank you for helping us fight for the safety of migrant children like Santiago.