Andry Hernández Romero, a makeup artist from Venezuela, recently returned to his home country after being deported by the Trump administration. He had been held in a large, infamous prison in El Salvador, known for its harsh conditions. California Congressman Robert Garcia confirmed this development, expressing relief that Romero is safe.
Romero fled Venezuela last summer, hoping to seek asylum in the U.S. He initially used a U.S. Customs and Border Protection app to schedule an appointment at the San Diego border. During his processing, U.S. immigration officials questioned him about his tattoos. These tattoos are flagged by authorities as possible signs of gang affiliation, particularly with the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua.
This young man, in his early 20s, has a crown tattoo on each wrist—one dedicated to his mother and the other to his father. His tattoos are also a nod to a festive tradition in his hometown and his involvement in beauty pageants. Romero maintains that he has no connections to any gangs.
After being detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, he was sent to a detention center in California before being flown to the Salvadoran mega-prison CECOT, a facility infamous for its brutal treatment of inmates.
The reality for many migrants like Romero is harrowing. According to recent statistics from the Pew Research Center, the number of Venezuelans seeking asylum has surged in recent years, with many fleeing political unrest and economic instability. The U.S. has seen a 69% increase in Venezuelan asylum claims from 2019 to 2021.
Social media reactions to Romero’s situation highlight the compassion and concern many feel for migrants who face perilous journeys. Twitter has seen hashtags like #SaveTheMigrants trend, amplifying the call for humane treatment and fair policies.
Experts warn that the treatment of migrants can have long-term psychological effects. Dr. Maria Lopez, a migration psychologist, notes that experiences of trauma in detention can make reintegration into society challenging for returnees. As conversations about migration reform continue, stories like Romero’s serve as a reminder of the complexities and humanity behind the headlines.
For more on U.S. immigration policies and their impact, check out the [American Immigration Council](https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/) for detailed reports and analyses.
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