Gathering Support for Immigrant Rights in Hays County
On Friday afternoon, a diverse group of priests, immigrant advocates, and members of the Reyes family assembled outside the Hays County Government Center. Many attendees wore buttons emblazoned with the message, “I stand with immigrants,” as they posed for photos. A countdown echoed in the air, culminating in a spirited chant for justice.
This demonstration coincided with the family’s intention to submit a petition urging Hays County District Attorney Kelly Higgins to dismiss criminal charges against Gerardo Reyes, a San Antonio resident detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following a traffic encounter in March.
For the Reyes family, the petition signifies a critical step beyond merely addressing legal matters; it represents a lifeline for Gerardo’s immigration case. With his immigration hearing set for Tuesday, any criminal charges could jeopardize his chances of remaining in the country.
Local organizers and advocates have collaborated closely with the Reyes family for weeks, working tirelessly to secure Gerardo’s release. Lupe Salinana, Gerardo’s eldest daughter, emphasized the need for compassion, stating that pain and fear are universal, regardless of immigration status.
Texas has emerged as a leader in ICE arrests, accounting for nearly 25% of nationwide detentions. Despite this, advocates in Hays County assert that ICE enforcement continues, though often under the radar.
Unfolding Events from a Traffic Stop
The incident that led to Gerardo’s detention occurred on March 14, when he and his 17-year-old son, Esteban, were pulled over by San Marcos police around 3:55 a.m. The stop was prompted by a false report alleging that a teenage girl had left her home with an older man.
Body camera footage shows Officer Jasiel Cortina repeatedly ordering Esteban out of the vehicle, claiming it was a “lawful order.” The frightened teenager, confused and anxious, resisted the command.
Shortly thereafter, Officer Cortina forcibly removed Gerardo from the truck, threatening him with a Taser before proceeding to arrest him as well. Esteban was ultimately released later that morning, but due to his immigration status, Gerardo was transferred to the ICE detention center in Taylor.
It’s vital to note that Texas law mandates compliance with police commands during traffic stops, and refusal can lead to obstruction charges. Following the incident, Officer Cortina was placed on administrative leave while an internal investigation commenced.
Recently, the Hays County District Attorney’s Office announced that it would not pursue charges against Gerardo. Esteban’s charges will also be dropped provided he meets certain conditions over the next six months. Hays County First Assistant District Attorney Greg Cox stated that the parents acted reasonably in seeking police assistance regarding their daughter.
Community Solidarity Amidst Family Struggles
In anticipation of Gerardo’s immigration hearing, family and community members held a vigil outside the Hays County Historical Courthouse, displaying placards demanding justice and calling for the closure of detention centers. The family’s plight is further complicated by Sanjuana Escalante, Gerardo’s wife, who suffered severe injuries following a drunk driving incident in 2019, necessitating Gerardo’s ongoing support in her recovery.
Sanjuana expressed despair about the daily struggles without Gerardo, describing an emptiness in their home that reverberates through their family life. Meanwhile, Gerardo remains trapped in the harsh environment of the detention center, where overcrowding and inadequate living conditions have prompted concerns from his family.
In a poignant moment during the vigil, Gerardo’s daughter Lupe received a video call from him, allowing him to witness the gathered community chanting in solidarity. The emotional connection brought tears to his eyes as he realized the support surrounding him.
Fears and Hopes for the Future
As the family faced Gerardo’s immigration hearing, Esteban reflected on the traumatic experience of the police encounter and its aftermath. He conveyed feelings of helplessness and humiliation, expressing a desire to shield his father from pain. Despite the hardship, Lupe and Sanjuana reject any notion of blame directed at Esteban, emphasizing that the immigration system bears responsibility for Gerardo’s current situation.
With aspirations for accountability against law enforcement and a longing for immigration reform, the family’s hopes remain alive. Gerardo has been the family’s primary breadwinner, working long hours at a taco truck and providing essential support to his spouse and children.
The next morning, as relatives gathered in the attorney’s office awaiting news, the reality of the situation began to set in. The hearing—held virtually due to the complex legal circumstances—resulted in confirmation of Gerardo’s deportation to Mexico, a decision that devastated the family.
Planning Next Steps in the Face of Adversity
In light of the judge’s ruling, the Reyes family intends to appeal the decision and file a writ of habeas corpus to contest Gerardo’s detention. Advocacy groups warn that such appeals pose significant challenges, particularly given the fast-paced nature of deportation cases in federal courts. As they navigate these legal hurdles, the family openly discussed the challenges of being American citizens amid the scrutiny faced by their father.
Despite the overwhelming odds, Lupe and Esteban shared their feelings about citizenship, noting how unjustified prejudice can impact their experience. The impending threat of separation looms over the family, but their commitment to each other and hope for a better future remains unwavering.
