Dolores Bustamante’s Deportation Case Approaches Critical Juncture
The decade-long deportation case of 54-year-old Dolores Bustamante is set to reach a pivotal moment Wednesday morning in downtown Buffalo. Bustamante, a worker at a Wayne County apple farm, is scheduled for a routine check-in with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Her attorney, Jose Perez, expressed concern about her upcoming meeting, stating, “There is a very high possibility that she will be detained.” Despite these warnings, Bustamante remains resolute: “I’m going. I’m not going to be a fugitive.”
Bustamante’s story has gained significant attention in both local and national media, emphasizing the plight of long-term residents and year-round farm workers facing deportation. Though she has previously come close to being removed from the U.S., Bustamante remains steadfast, rallying support from her community and local leaders during this challenging time.
Sharing her thoughts, Bustamante explained, “If I decide not to show up at the appointed time…well, that’s the last thing I want to experience.” She reflected on the choices made by others who have evaded court appearances, noting, “They live in hiding, constantly changing jobs or uprooting their lives, which only adds to their stress.”
For Bustamante, the principle of facing her situation head-on outweighs concerns about potential repercussions. “It’s better to do the right thing, even if there are consequences, because it makes you feel better about yourself,” she stated.
Focused on her legal battle, Perez is seeking an emergency stay to reopen Bustamante’s case. Although ICE began deportation proceedings against her in 2014, her case was deprioritized under the Biden administration, only to be reinstated when Trump returned to office last year. Perez challenges the administration’s narrative, asserting, “This person is by no means a criminal.”
Community Support for Bustamante
Local representatives have voiced their support for Bustamante. Rep. Joe Morrell (D-Irondequoit) emphasized her integral role in the community, stating, “Dolores is a beloved member of our community, and she and her family deserve the opportunity to continue building a better life here in Rochester.” He characterized the existing immigration system as failing to protect individuals like her.
Preparing for her potential future, Bustamante visited the bank last week to ensure that her taxes would be paid even in the event of her detainment. As a mother and grandmother who has spent over 22 years in the United States, she has been a vocal advocate for farm worker rights. Her contributions include speaking engagements at Harvard University on topics such as women’s advocacy and sustainable agriculture.
Despite her community ties, Bustamante’s legal issues began in 2014 when she was stopped for a minor traffic violation, leading to her being reported to Border Patrol. Originally from Mexico, she navigated dangerous circumstances to enter the U.S. in 2003, fleeing domestic violence with her young daughter. The impact of her past continues to resonate as she prepares for her upcoming ICE meeting.
At her last check-in with ICE, Bustamante initiated a motion to allow her daughter, a permanent resident, to apply for citizenship, which could subsequently pave the way for Bustamante to secure a visa. However, this application will only be viable later this year. Perez suggests that not complying with ICE could be strategically beneficial, but Bustamante holds firm to her decision to appear, navigating whatever the outcome may bring with faith in divine guidance.
