Justice for Jorge: Fighting Back Against ICE Detention

FIGHT FOR JORGE’S FREEDOM – NO ONE SHOULD BE DETAINED FOR SEEKING SAFETY

Jorge is a 22-year-old asylum seeker from Venezuela who has already survived more than anyone should have to endure. He fled his homeland to escape extreme violence, political and economic turmoil, and life-threatening conditions—risking everything in search of safety. Now, instead of being met with compassion, he has been unjustly detained by ICE.

On February 19, 2025, Jorge received a call from ICE instructing him to report the next day. He complied, as he has always done throughout his asylum process. But when he arrived on February 20, he was informed that his case was undergoing “custody redetermination.” Instead of being released, he was sent to the Northwest Detention Center (NW ICE Processing Center), where he now awaits his court date.

On March 20, Jorge has his master calendar hearing, in which he will be requesting a bond - which could be as high as $15,000.

Jorge’s journey to the U.S. has been one of immense hardship and courage. After fleeing Venezuela, he first sought refuge in Colombia, then Ecuador, only to face further violence and instability. Determined to find safety, he crossed the Darién Gap—not once, but twice—enduring extortion, threats, and the horrors of a migration route where too many lose their lives. His choice to come to the U.S. was not made lightly—it was a desperate attempt to survive, build a future, and support his family.

Jorge is a beloved member of our community. Everyone who knows him can attest to his kindness, his infectious joy, and his unwavering strength. He is actively involved in his community at large through his dedication to faith work with his church: Iglesia de Jesucristo Pentecostal de Las Tinieblas a La Luz. He loves dancing bachata and playing any type of sport. He is a dedicated friend who would do anything to help those around him.

In addition, Jorge has been an active leader at Voz Workers’ Rights Education Project since March 2024. He’s traveled with Voz to New Jersey for the Somos Más Asamblea with the National Day Labor Organizing Network, graduated from their Emergency Preparedness Cohort, and completed the accredited irrigation program in partnership with Portland Community College. He has stepped up in leadership and job training programs, demonstrating resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to building a better future—for himself and the community

Jorge’s detention is unjust, and part of a broader system that criminalizes migrants and day laborers. We know that solo el pueblo salva al pueblo, and we will not stand by while our people are taken.

Please DONATE to cover legal fees, bond if granted, lost wages, funds for commissary expenses, travel costs for loved ones in Oregon to visit him, and financial relief for his family. Every dollar raised will help protect Jorge’s future, whether he remains in the U.S. or faces deportation.

DONATE & SHARE! THANK YOU!

Josué 1:9 - Mira que te mando que te esfuerces y seas valiente; no temas ni desmayes, porque Jehová tu Dios estará contigo en dondequiera que vayas.