On Thursday, December 11, 2014, the family of Jose Estrada Lopez had a big celebration. Mr. Lopez was released after spending nearly a year in immigration detention. All his appeals had been turned down and the family was near desperation.
In a sudden turn, Immigration and Customs Enforcement let him go. Estrada Lopez’attorney, Eric Mark, explained that the decision was the direct result of President Obama’s new deferral policy, which he issued as an Executive Action because Congress has refused to consider a bill for immigration policy reform.
Even though the program and applications for it won’t be ready for another 90 to 180 days, ICE has already begun releasing people who will be affected by it. Jose Estrada Lopez is one of the lucky ones.
Many thanks to Monsy Alvarado, a columnist for the RECORD, who has followed the family’s story for months. CoFiA and members of various Guatemalan groups have supported Estrada Lopez’wife, Gloria Chocoj, while she struggled to support their three children and follow every possibility that might lead to his release.
For the full story see “Release brings holiday joy to Fairview family,”THE RECORD, Friday, December 12, 2014.