The Outcry Over the Deportation of Andry Hernandez Romero: A Call for Justice
The recent deportation of Andry Hernandez Romero, a 31-year-old gay Venezuelan makeup artist seeking asylum in the United States, has ignited significant protest from the LGBTQ+ community. Supporters gathered in West Hollywood to raise their voices against the treatment of Hernandez, who fled Venezuela to escape persecution due to his sexuality and other factors. The incident has galvanized local leaders, activists, and human rights advocates, reflecting a broader concern about the treatment of marginalized individuals within the U.S. immigration system.
Hernandez arrived at a U.S. port of entry with the intention of seeking asylum and had made an appointment prior to his arrival. Despite his legal approach, he was detained for several months and subsequently deported to a maximum-security prison in El Salvador. This drastic turn of events highlights deep flaws in the immigration system, particularly concerning the rights of individuals seeking refuge from violence and discrimination. Critics argue that the objective to protect the vulnerable is being overshadowed by bureaucratic inefficiencies and an enforcement-heavy approach.
Upon his deportation, Hernandez was moved to the infamous Terrorism Confinement Center in El Salvador, notorious for housing some of the most dangerous criminals. Many advocates are troubled by the prison’s harsh conditions and uncompromising policies, further exacerbating fears for Hernandez’s safety. He was falsely accused of having gang affiliations, a claim that has not been substantiated. This accusation gained traction particularly after former President Trump enacted the Alien Enemies Act, which allowed for the deportation of individuals suspected of gang membership, like Hernandez.
Family members and supporters stress that Romero was denied a fair hearing before his deportation. The last recorded communication with him occurred on March 14 from a U.S. detention facility. Since his transfer overseas, there have been no updates regarding his condition or safety, leading to heightened concerns among those who care for him. Joe Hollendoner, CEO of the Los Angeles LGBT Center, expressed the agony of this situation, stating that “Andry came to this country believing in the promise of safety and dignity,” yet faced “detention, dehumanization, and ultimately deportation.”
Romero’s attorney, Lindsay Toczylowski, describes this incident as shocking, emphasizing the clear violation of due process and human rights. She and other advocates are calling for immediate action from U.S. officials to reassess Romero’s case, given the serious threats posed to his safety as a gay man imprisoned in an unfamiliar and dangerous environment. The risk he faces is compounded by his identity, making him particularly vulnerable within the prison system.
Additionally, a recent report from Philip Holsinger, a photojournalist with 60 Minutes, revealed harrowing conditions within the El Salvador prison. Holsinger witnessed Romero crying out, proclaiming his innocence amid physical abuse from guards. Such testimonies underscore the urgent need for intervention and human rights advocacy in this situation. Chelsea Byers, the Mayor of West Hollywood, has also expressed her outrage over the violations of Hernandez’s rights and the denial of due process afforded to him by the Constitution.
The involvement of local leaders and activists highlights the need for immediate federal action. Recently, Governor Gavin Newsom has made a direct appeal to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, urging them to bring Romero back to the U.S. for a fair hearing. As protests continue and voices rise in solidarity with Hernandez, it serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those seeking asylum from persecution in their home countries. The community’s resolve insists that the dignity and rights of all individuals must be upheld, echoing a fundamental belief in justice, safety, and humanity.
