News Summary

Gladys and Nelson Gonzalez have been deported to Colombia after living in Southern California for 35 years. This distressing turn has left their U.S.-born daughters heartbroken as they navigate the emotional impact of their parents’ sudden absence. Despite being law-abiding citizens with no criminal history, their outdated immigration status led to their arrest and removal. Community support has emerged, prompting their daughters to establish a GoFundMe campaign to assist their parents in rebuilding their lives in Colombia, highlighting the ongoing challenges of U.S. immigration policy.

Laguna Niguel Couple Deported to Colombia After 35 Years in the U.S.

In a poignant tale that has stirred emotions across the community, Gladys and Nelson Gonzalez found themselves unwillingly returned to their native Colombia last month after spending a remarkable 35 years in Southern California. This unexpected turn of events has left their three U.S.-born daughters – Jessica, Stephanie, and Gabby – heartbroken and grappling with the reality of their parents’ sudden departure.

Routine Check-In Turns into Nightmare

The couple was taken into custody during what was supposed to be a routine immigration check-in on February 21. Gladys had recently received an extension for their stay, leading them to believe that their immigration status was being handled appropriately. However, just a few hours later, a different immigration officer intervened, leading to their arrest. Both Gladys and Nelson were handcuffed and treated like criminals, an experience that has proven traumatic for the family.

Law-Abiding Citizens with No Criminal History

It’s important to note that the Gonzalezes have no criminal record; they are considered law-abiding citizens who diligently attended their immigration check-ins and actively sought legal pathways to remain in the U.S. The couple originally came to the United States in 1989 to escape violence and drugs in Colombia. Over the years, Nelson worked as a phlebotomist, while Gladys managed their household.

Years of Extensions and Compliance

For years, the Gonzalezes consistently received yearly extensions to stay in the country and never once missed an immigration appointment. However, as recent statements from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) indicate, they were deemed to have exhausted all legal options to remain in the U.S. between March 2000 and August 2021. As a result, their doubts had transformed into deportation.

A Heartbreaking Departure

Following their detention, the Gonzalezes were moved across various detention centers spanning California, Arizona, and Louisiana. Their journey culminated in their deportation, which left their daughters and a young grandson behind in the U.S. This separation has not only caused emotional turmoil but has also sparked action among their children.

Community Support and Grief

In an effort to support their parents in rebuilding their lives in Colombia, the Gonzalez daughters have set up a GoFundMe page. While they express gratitude for the community’s support during this challenging time, there’s an underlying sorrow for their parents’ inability to return to their home in the U.S.

Broader Implications of Immigration Policy

This harrowing story shines a light on the broader issues of federal immigration enforcement. There has been a substantial focus on individuals without legal status, regardless of their history. This trend has been a point of contention, with critics, including members of Congress, questioning the rationale behind prioritizing deportation of non-criminal individuals.

Changes Through Administrations

It’s worth mentioning that the Gonzalez family’s experience is reflective of the shifts in immigration policies over the years. Adjustments made during the Trump administration emphasized mass deportations, but even under the Biden administration, deportations have continued at staggering rates. Reports indicate that over 270,000 individuals were deported in just a recent 12-month period.

Looking Ahead

The Gonzalez family’s situation serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities surrounding immigration laws and the individuals caught within them. As their daughters navigate this challenging chapter, they not only carry the weight of their family’s pain but also the hopes of one day reuniting with their beloved parents.

Laguna Niguel Couple Deported to Colombia After 35 Years in the U.S.

News Summary