Venezuelan Immigrant Reunited with Family After Deportation
After being deported to El Salvador, Venezuelan immigrant Francisco Garcia Casique has returned to his homeland, reuniting with his family following a harrowing experience. Casique, who had lived in Longview, Texas, found himself at the Terrorism Confinement Center in El Salvador after failing to attend an immigration hearing in February 2023.
Casique, 24, entered the United States illegally in 2023 to support his family. Months later, he was among more than 200 detainees released from the Salvadoran facility in July as part of a diplomatic exchange between the U.S. government and the Venezuelan government. His mother, Mirelys Casique, campaigned tirelessly for his release, participating in protests and speaking with various media outlets to raise awareness of her son’s plight.
Mirelys expressed immense gratitude upon her son’s return, stating, “I thank God that he is back with me.” She noted that their journey was supported by many who echoed their concerns about the detainees. “We went 128 days without hearing their voices, and it was a team effort. Many helped us accomplish this great miracle,” she added during a recent phone interview.
The circumstances surrounding Francisco’s deportation raised concerns for his mother, who believes immigration officials may have misidentified her son due to his tattoos. “How could they have not realized that mistake? How could they not see that the photo that was in the archives is not the same one of my son?” she questioned, expressing her anguish over the ordeal.
Upon his return, Francisco described the emotional rollercoaster he experienced while detained. “I feel very happy to be able to hug my mom, my sisters, and my grandma. I feel like I was born again and blessed to be in my mother’s arms,” he stated in a text message.
As he adjusts to life back in Venezuela, Francisco hopes to change perceptions surrounding immigration. He believes there are many honest migrants who simply seek opportunities. “There are honest migrants who have honorable values and just want an opportunity,” he remarked.
Reflecting on his time in the Salvadoran detention center, Francisco emphasized his desire to heal from the traumatic experience. “I thank God for taking me out of that place,” he concluded, looking forward to rebuilding his life with his family by his side.
This story exemplifies the complex and often challenging realities faced by immigrants and highlights the emotional toll that deportation can have on families.
