Purdue University Student Released from ICE Detention After Faith Leaders Rally for Justice

A student from South Korea, Yeonsoo Go, is finally free after a brief but intense detention. The 20-year-old had been taken into custody during an immigration hearing in Manhattan and was held at a federal facility in Louisiana for three nights. Her release this past Monday brought tears of joy from her family and community.

Yeonsoo’s situation drew attention from religious leaders not just in New York, but overseas too. Mary Rothwell Davis, an attorney with the Episcopal Diocese of New York, explained that the family was shocked and had no clue why Go was arrested or why she was released so suddenly. They believed it was a mistake all along.

DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin stated that Go faced expedited removal for overstaying her visa. However, Davis disagreed, asserting that Go has held a valid visa since arriving in the U.S. in 2021 with her mother, Rev. Kyrie Kim, who serves a Korean congregation in New York.

Yeonsoo, who graduated from Scarsdale High School, is currently studying at Purdue’s College of Pharmacy. She also stays active in her church community. Prior to her release, clergy members, including Bishop Matthew Heyd, pressed for her freedom, claiming her detention was a significant error.

Assemblymember Amy Paulin shared that she spoke to Yeonsoo after her release. She described her as “relieved” and thankful for the support from the community.

This incident throws light on the complexities of immigration laws in the U.S. According to a 2021 report from the American Immigration Council, thousands of international students face challenges, often stemming from visa issues. These cases aren’t just numbers; they impact real lives, creating stress and uncertainty.

Overall, Yeonsoo’s release is a reminder of the ongoing discussions about immigration policy and its human impacts. The community’s response highlights the importance of support networks during hard times.



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Religion, Prisons, Protests and demonstrations, Immigrant detention, Immigration, Education, U.S. news, General news, Article, 124388723