Alabama Mother of Two, Born in Mexico, Detained by ICE Despite 30 Years in US
Image Source: Internet
Sonia Parris, a 30-year-old mother of two, has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Alabama, despite living in the United States for over 30 years. Born in Mexico, Parris was brought to the US when she was just two months old and grew up in the country, making it her only home. Parris had been living in the US under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, but her protection lapsed several years ago when she failed to renew her status. On November 17, she was arrested during a routine traffic stop and taken into custody by ICE. Her family claims that when they attempted to retrieve her from jail, they were told that ICE had placed a hold on her and would take her within 48 hours. Parris is a mother to a 12-year-old son and a 2-year-old daughter, both of whom are U.S. citizens. Her detention has sparked concerns about ICE's enforcement strategy and the impact it has on families. Critics argue that minor immigration-status lapses can lead to detention, separation, and extreme family disruption. According to reports, ICE has detained individuals with no violent criminal history, including those with U.S.-citizen children and lawful spouses. Immigration lawyers have described the arrests as unnecessary, traumatizing, and harmful to families. In Parris' case, there are no reports of violent crime or serious felony, only traffic and license-related issues. The detention of Parris and others like her highlights the challenges faced by undocumented or lapsed-status immigrants in the US. Recent increases in ICE enforcement and a closing window for DACA renewals have left many facing uncertainty. Civil-rights watchdogs, such as Human Rights Watch, have called recent ICE tactics 'punishing the innocent.' In a surprising trend, immigrants with no criminal record now make up the largest group held in ICE detention. As the US continues to grapple with immigration policies, the case of Sonia Parris serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of these decisions.
