A federal judge has halted the deportation of Jeanette Vizguerra, an activist recognized by Time Magazine as one of the “Most Influential People,” following her controversial arrest by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Vizguerra, 53, was detained outside her workplace at a Target store in Colorado, triggering widespread condemnation from advocates and politicians. She gained international attention in 2017 when she sought sanctuary in a Denver church to avoid deportation, becoming a prominent voice in the immigration reform movement.
Judge Nina Wang issued an injunction, preventing Vizguerra’s deportation while her case proceeds through the legal system. The 10th US Circuit Court of Appeals is also reviewing a related case filed by her attorneys. Judge Wang emphasized the need to maintain the status quo to properly consider the legal issues.
Vizguerra’s activism began to draw international attention in 2017 when she sought refuge in a church basement for three years. During this time, she helped establish the Metro Denver Sanctuary Coalition, aiding others in similar situations. However, her activism was interrupted when ICE agents arrested her at her Target job.
Her daughter, Luna Baez, reported that ICE officers treated Vizguerra disrespectfully during her arrest. Despite this, Vizguerra’s son, Roberto, stated that she was being treated with dignity at the detention facility.
ICE defended the arrest, citing Vizguerra’s criminal record and a final deportation order. They stated she illegally entered the U.S. in 1997 and has received due process in immigration court.
Vizguerra’s journey began 28 years ago when she and her family immigrated from Mexico, seeking safety. Her past includes a 2009 charge related to a false Social Security number, which heightened her visibility to immigration authorities. After several years of appeals, she temporarily left the U.S. to see her dying mother in Mexico, which led to further complications upon her return.
She has since sought legal avenues to remain in the U.S., including a U visa for victims of certain crimes who assist law enforcement. However, her requests were denied in 2017, leading to her three-year sanctuary in a church.
Vizguerra’s advocacy earned her recognition as one of Time’s “Most Influential People” in 2017. However, her recent arrest has reignited controversy. Former ICE official John Fabbricatore criticized her, while Colorado Governor Jared Polis and Denver Mayor Mike Johnston condemned her arrest.
Supporters, including the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition, rallied for her release, emphasizing her community contributions and the impact on her family. Her daughter, Luna Baez, pleaded for her mother’s return.
