Braving the year's first snowfall, a crowd gathered on November 11 outside the Hanley Federal Building in Syracuse, New York, demanding the release of Alcibiades Lázaro Ramírez González and Yannier Vázquez Hidalgo. This newlywed Cuban couple was detained by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), igniting a wave of support across the city.
Their case has triggered widespread solidarity among the community.
Unified Voices Demand Justice
Holding signs and chanting, coworkers, local activists, and union members called for the couple's immediate release, condemning what they perceive as a breach of fundamental values of justice and human dignity.
"No one should be torn from their loved ones for daring to believe in the American dream," declared Melinda Person, one of the protest participants.
Echoing this sentiment, William Magnarelli noted that the couple's story "mirrors that of countless immigrant generations who came to Central New York," adding that "no one should be separated from those they love for daring to seek the American promise."
A Chilling Protest with a Warm Message
Despite the cold and snow, the demonstration outside the courthouse was large and spirited. During the protest, one of the detained individuals managed to call from the detention center, expressing gratitude to those rallying on their behalf.
This gesture moved the attendees and strengthened their resolve to continue the fight.
"We will keep protesting until they are freed," several demonstrators vowed, extending their solidarity to other immigrants facing similar challenges.
"We won't stop until they come home," they insisted.
Community Shaken by Arrest
Known to friends as Alex and Jan, the couple was arrested on October 29 during a routine immigration appointment as part of their legal process to regularize their status in the United States.
Only two months prior, they had married in the U.S. and worked as Environmental Services staff at SUNY Upstate Medical University, earning the respect of colleagues for their supportive nature and dedication.
Their sudden arrest shocked those who knew them and highlighted the disconnect between the promises of a more humane immigration policy and the reality for immigrants in America.
"They're not criminals; they came here to survive," said Ashley Clark, a friend and coworker.
"They are a beacon of light at work, always ready to help others," she added.
Clark has spearheaded a support campaign that includes collecting recommendation letters, selling T-shirts with the slogan "Survival isn't illegal," and organizing public demonstrations like the one in Syracuse.
Union Support and Deportation Fears
The cause of Alex and Jan has gained backing from the United University Professions (UUP) and the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA), both condemning the detention and deportation policies affecting even those with no criminal record, like this couple.
Both men remain held in a detention facility in Batavia, New York, facing court hearings that could determine their immediate future.
Family members and advocates fear deportation to Cuba, where they assert the couple faced political persecution and homophobia.
"There's no protection or justice for them there," a close relative recently warned.
Understanding the ICE Detention Case
Why were Alcibiades Lázaro Ramírez González and Yannier Vázquez Hidalgo detained?
The couple was detained by ICE during a routine immigration appointment, part of their process to regularize their status in the United States.
What has been the community’s response to their detention?
The community has rallied in support, organizing protests and campaigns to demand their release and highlighting the harsh realities of current immigration policies.
What role have unions played in this situation?
Unions like the United University Professions and the Civil Service Employees Association have supported the couple, condemning the policies that lead to their detention.